zuk6 bou6逐步
Jyutpingzuk6 bou6
Yalejuhk bouh
Definition
Step by step, progressively, or in an orderly sequence of stages.
neutraldaily actionswork
How it's used
Focus on the methodical nature of a process rather than just the physical act of walking. It implies a deliberate, planned progression through stages, making it ideal for describing long term changes or complex tasks. Unlike simple adverbs of speed, it emphasizes the structural integrity of the sequence.
Examples
We need to solve these problems step by step.
Do you want to improve the plan step by step?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this for physical movement like climbing stairs or walking, where 一步一步 is the natural choice. Using 逐步 for literal walking sounds overly formal and stiff, as if you are describing a mechanical process.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
