by degrees

idiom

: very slowly : by a series of small changes
The tomatoes changed by degrees from green to red.

Examples of by degrees in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Bailey, Slater and Bode are more effective, laying the groundwork for significant developments with their characters in Part 2 (at least in the stage musical narrative), while Yeoh and Goldblum reveal by degrees the darker intentions hidden under the cloak of authority. David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter, 19 Nov. 2024 Use of force accountability is influenced by degrees of sensitivity to public sentiment and fear of reprisal, experts said. Minnah Arshad, USA TODAY, 17 Aug. 2024 The moral collapse of the Republican Party proceeded by degrees. Francis Wilkinson, The Mercury News, 16 July 2024 Keegan shows us a man turning toward his higher self, at first by degrees and then in a sudden rush. Pamela Newton, The Atlantic, 7 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for by degrees 

Dictionary Entries Near by degrees

Cite this Entry

“By degrees.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/by%20degrees. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on by degrees

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!