as in gradual
proceeding or changing by steps or degrees
a piecemeal attempt to remedy the traffic congestion
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
1
as in gradually
by small steps or amounts
remodeled their house piecemeal because of budgetary constraints
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of piecemeal
Adam Harrington, CBS News, 20 May 2026
The second encouraging measure, advanced by the state’s business community, would force the state to embrace comprehensive reform of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), rather than just piecemeal exemptions.
—The Editorial Board, Oc Register, 7 May 2026
Voice Of The People, New York Daily News, 7 Jan. 2026
Personal details emerge piecemeal, in no particular order, always in connection with the music with which they are entangled.
—Literary Hub, 11 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for piecemeal
Adjective
The city has launched a new working group and pilot program intended to remove obstacles for those navigating what advocates call Chicago's disjointed, opaque, and piecemeal system to find affordable housing.
—Adam Harrington, CBS News, 20 May 2026
The second encouraging measure, advanced by the state’s business community, would force the state to embrace comprehensive reform of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), rather than just piecemeal exemptions.
—The Editorial Board, Oc Register, 7 May 2026
Adverb
Whatever extra cash drivers throw into the congestion pricing till — in fact, all toll revenue — must go through a new state financial counting house and be given back piecemeal to the MTA when expenses are fully reviewed for reasonable cost.
—Voice Of The People, New York Daily News, 7 Jan. 2026
Personal details emerge piecemeal, in no particular order, always in connection with the music with which they are entangled.
—Literary Hub, 11 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for piecemeal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for piecemeal
Adjective
-
That kind of mission creep — the gradual expansion of government beyond its original role — weakens local control and accountability.—
Letters to the Editor,
The Orlando Sentinel,
11 June 2026
-
The cleanest method is a gradual taper rather than going cold turkey.—
Samantha Agate,
Kansas City Star,
11 June 2026
Adverb
-
While temperatures will gradually decline later in the week, Fresno’s highest temperatures are expected to remain above 90 degrees through Friday before more seasonable conditions arrive over the weekend.—
Angela Rodriguez,
Sacbee.com,
15 June 2026
-
There are hidden pathways, jungle gyms, koi ponds and lounging spaces that reveal themselves gradually over the course of your stay.—
Arion McNicoll,
TheWeek,
15 June 2026
Adverb
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Though the cousins were only two years apart in age, Parker was keeping an eye out for Akyra, who was the youngest victim to die inside Pulse.—
Elizabeth Wolfe,
CNN Money,
12 June 2026
-
Things fell completely apart in the sixth as the Hornets sent 10 batters to the plate, resulting in a six-run outburst that settled things for good.—
Dave Wright,
Twin Cities,
11 June 2026
Cite this Entry
“Piecemeal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/piecemeal. Accessed 17 Jun. 2026.
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