Incremental: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is ideal for describing progress or changes made in small, measurable steps, often in a business or technology setting.

• The software update will be rolled out in incremental stages.
• Our company achieved incremental growth over the past year.

Use this word to describe a slow, steady process that takes place over a long period. It's often used when talking about natural processes or personal development.

• There has been a gradual increase in temperatures over the past decade.
• Her improvement in learning the language was gradual.

Use this word when describing a methodical approach that requires following a sequence of stages. It's often used in instructions or procedures.

• The manual provides step-by-step instructions for assembling the furniture.
• He explained the process in a step-by-step manner.

This word fits when referring to something that occurs on a limited scope or size. It's often used in discussions about projects, experiments, or businesses.

• The company started with small-scale operations before expanding nationally.
• They conducted a small-scale study to test the new drug.

Used when describing gradual improvements or changes.

• The software will receive incremental updates throughout the year

Used broadly when referring to any new version or addition to hardware or software. It can also refer to providing new information.

• Please update your software to the latest version to ensure you have the latest security features

Used when referring to a fix or a short-term solution to a specific problem, typically in software. Can have a slightly negative connotation if the patch temporarily fixes a larger problem.

• We released a patch to fix the security vulnerability discovered last week

Used when describing significant improvements or upgrades to a product or system.

• The new version of the app includes several enhancements to its user interface