Meaning: This idiom means something is happening gradually, in small steps or increments, rather than all at once.
Usage in Example Sentences:
- “She’s improving her skills little by little through daily practice.”
- “The garden is growing little by little as the plants start to bloom.”
- “Little by little, they rebuilt their house after the storm.”
Origin: The phrase “little by little” dates back to at least the 16th century and is often used to describe slow but steady progress. It emphasizes a process that happens in stages rather than in a single moment. The repetition of “little” underscores the gradual nature of the progress being made. This idiom is commonly used in both personal and professional contexts to reflect the idea that small, consistent efforts lead to significant results over time.
