piecemeal

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Definitions from WordNet

Adjective piecemeal has 1 sense

bit-by-bit, in small stages, piecemeal, step-by-step, stepwise - one thing at a time
Antonym: sudden (indirect, via gradual)

Adverbial piecemeal has 1 sense

piecemeal, little by little, bit by bit, in stages - a little bit at a time; "the research structure has developed piecemeal"

Definitions from the Web

Piecemeal

Definition:

[Adjective] characterized by something that is done or made in a fragmented or gradual manner.

[Adverb] in a manner characterized by fragmentation or gradualness.

Example sentences:

[Adjective]

The construction of the new building was done piecemeal, causing delays in its completion.
She prepared the presentation by piecemeal research, gathering information from various sources.
The piecemeal approach to problem-solving often results in inefficient outcomes.

[Adverb]

The team assembled the puzzle piecemeal, starting with the edges.
The company grew piecemeal, adding new products and expanding into different markets gradually.
She completed the project piecemeal, working on it whenever she had spare time.