Translation guide
The English word 'stepwise' means proceeding in a series of distinct stages or increments. This guide covers how to express this concept naturally in Japanese, from general adverbs to technical terms.
Describing a process that advances in clear, incremental stages, often in everyday or business contexts.
The most direct and common equivalent for 'stepwise'. Used as a na-adjective or adverb (段階的に). Suitable for both spoken and written Japanese.
新しいシステムを段階的に導入します。
We will introduce the new system stepwise.
段階的なアプローチが必要です。
A stepwise approach is necessary.
Literally 'one step at a time'. Emphasizes a careful, incremental progression. More casual and often used in motivational or instructional contexts.
一歩ずつ進めていきましょう。
Let's proceed stepwise (one step at a time).
Means 'following the order' or 'step by step'. Often used when explaining a procedure or sequence.
順を追って説明します。
I will explain it stepwise (in order).
A more formal or literary term meaning 'gradual' or 'progressive'. Less common in everyday speech.
漸進的な改革を進める。
To advance stepwise reforms.
Specifically modifying a verb to indicate that an action is done in steps.
The adverbial form of 段階的. This is the standard way to say 'stepwise' as an adverb.
料金を段階的に値上げする。
To raise prices stepwise.
Means 'little by little'. While not a direct translation, it conveys a gradual, stepwise increase or change. Very common in spoken Japanese.
少しずつ慣れていきます。
I'll get used to it stepwise (little by little).
Loanword from English 'step by step'. Used in technical or instructional contexts, but sounds slightly foreign.
ステップバイステップで手順を追う。
Follow the procedure stepwise.
Used in mathematics, engineering, or science to describe a function that changes in discrete steps.
The standard mathematical term for 'step function' or 'stepwise function'.
このグラフは階段関数を示している。
This graph shows a stepwise function.
Means 'step-shaped' or 'step-like'. Used to describe a stepwise pattern or change.
ステップ状の変化が観測された。
A stepwise change was observed.
Means 'discrete' as opposed to continuous. In some contexts, it can imply stepwise changes.
段階的 is the most direct translation and works in formal and technical contexts. 一歩ずつ is more figurative and emphasizes a careful, steady pace, often used in personal development or casual instructions.
段階的に計画を実行する。
Execute the plan stepwise.
一歩ずつ夢に近づいている。
I'm getting closer to my dream step by step.
The English word 'stepwise' is not commonly used in everyday conversation. In Japanese, directly translating it as ステップワイズ would sound unnatural. Use 段階的 or context-appropriate phrases instead.
その会社は段階的な戦略を採用した。
The company adopted a stepwise strategy.
この問題には段階的に取り組む必要がある。
We need to approach this problem stepwise.
離散的なステップで増加する。
It increases in discrete (stepwise) steps.