Ways to say it
| Italian | IPA |
|---|---|
| passo a passo | /ˈpas.so a ˈpas.so/ (word by word) |
| gradualmente | /ɡra.du.alˈmen.te/ /ɡra.dwalˈmen.te/ |
| poco a poco | /ˈpɔ.ko a ˈpɔ.ko/ (word by word) |
| poco per volta | /ˈpɔ.ko per ˈvɔl.ta/ (word by word) |
These terms are used to describe actions performed gradually or in small increments. While they all convey a sense of gradual progression, the specific choice depends on whether you are following a methodical procedure, describing a change over time or focusing on small portions of a task.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase passo a passo is a literal translation of 'step by step', where passo means 'step' or 'pace'.
Which one should you use?
The different forms serve distinct nuances. Passo a passo often implies following a specific sequence of instructions or a methodical procedure. Gradualmente focuses more on the slow, continuous nature of a change over time. Poco a poco is similar to 'little by little' and is more commonly used to describe a gradual increase or decrease in intensity or quantity. Finally, poco per volta is used when emphasizing the small amount or small portion that is handled in a single instance or sitting.
How do you pronounce it?
The phrase passo a passo is pronounced /ˈpas.so a ˈpas.so/. It has 4 syllables, and the first syllable is stressed.
Did you know?
- Beyond walking, the word passo can describe a high mountain pass, which is the strategic point used to cross a range.
- The phrase poco a poco is part of a wider Romance family, sharing a nearly identical structure with the Spanish poco a poco and French peu à peu.
- In Italian, passo doesn't just mean a single step, but can also refer to a person's general 'pace' or 'speed', such as having a passo veloce.
Examples in context
- Devi studiare l'inglese poco per volta.English is something to be learned step by step.This sentence shows how to use poco per volta to suggest learning something in small increments.Tatoeba #581779 by bruno_b, translation #26249 by carlosalberto
- Dovresti imparare l'italiano gradualmente.You should learn Italian step by step.
- Segui le istruzioni passo dopo passo.Follow the instructions step by step.
- Metti le cose a posto, piano piano.Put things in order, step by step.
- Impareremo questa nuova ricetta passo a passo.We will learn this new recipe step by step.
- Il piano è stato realizzato passo a passo.The plan was carried out step by step.
Example conversation
Lorenzo and Giulia are discussing a difficult renovation project at home.
- LorenzoÈ un lavoro molto difficile, Giulia.It is a very difficult job, Giulia.
- GiuliaSì, ma lo faremo passo a passo.Yes, but we will do it step by step.
- LorenzoHai ragione, non dobbiamo avere fretta.You are right, we shouldn't rush.
- GiuliaEsatto, procediamo con calma.Exactly, let's proceed calmly.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “step by step” translations and entries passo a passo, gradualmente, poco a poco, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (passo, a, poco, per, volta) and can differ in connected speech.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries a, gradualmente, passo, poco, poco a poco, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
