in stages

Definitions

Proceeding or occurring in a series of distinct steps or phases.

Gradually or incrementally rather than all at once.

Examples

The construction of the new bridge will be completed in stages over the next three years.

We decided to implement the new software update in stages to ensure that any potential bugs could be identified early.

Synonyms

gradually incrementally piecemeal step-by-step progressively bit-by-bit sequentially

Antonyms

instantly simultaneously abruptly all-at-once suddenly immediately wholesale