incremental
in-kruh-MEN-tuhl
/ˌɪŋ.krəˈmen.təl/
Happening or done in a series of small, often regular stages or amounts.
Implies a deliberate, step-by-step approach where each step is small but contributes to a larger whole.
The story behind the word. The word traces back to the Latin 'crescere', meaning 'to grow'. It shares a family tree with 'crescent' (the growing moon) and 'increase'. It suggests that growth isn't always a giant leap, but often a series of small additions.
Word relationships
- gradual: Gradual is more general; incremental specifically suggests distinct, measurable steps.
- step-by-step: Step-by-step is more informal and procedural.
- radical: Radical implies a change from the roots up, often sudden and total.
- abrupt: Abrupt suggests a sudden, often unexpected stop or change.
Commonly confused with
- exponential: Incremental is steady and linear; exponential describes growth that accelerates rapidly.
Word family
- increment (noun): A small amount by which something increases.
- incrementally (adverb): In small, steady stages.
Collocations
- incremental change
- incremental progress
- incremental steps
Example sentences
- "The company preferred incremental improvements to its software rather than a complete, risky overhaul." Business strategy
- "The change in the tax rate was incremental, increasing by only 0.1% each year for a decade." Economic policy
Memory hook
Think of 'in-crease'. Each 'increment' is a small 'increase' in the total size. Small steps, big results.
When not to use
Do not use for sudden, massive, or revolutionary changes.
Fun facts
- In computer programming, 'incrementing' a variable usually means adding exactly 1 to it.
Explore more words
gradual, iteration, escalate, advance, analytical, accumulation
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