The difference between Gradual and Stepwise
When used as adjectives, gradual means proceeding or advancing by small, slow, regular steps or degrees, whereas stepwise means one (small) step or stage at a time.
Gradual is also noun with the meaning: an antiphon or responsory after the epistle, in the mass, which was sung on the steps, or while the deacon ascended the steps.
Stepwise is also adverb with the meaning: one step or stage at a time.
check bellow for the other definitions of Gradual and Stepwise
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Gradual as an adjective:
Proceeding or advancing by small, slow, regular steps or degrees
Examples:
"a gradual increase of knowledge; a gradual decline"
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Gradual as a noun (Christianity):
An antiphon or responsory after the epistle, in the Mass, which was sung on the steps, or while the deacon ascended the steps.
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Gradual as a noun (Christianity):
A service book containing the musical portions of the Mass.
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Stepwise as an adjective:
One (small) step or stage at a time; gradual; piecemeal
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Stepwise as an adverb:
One step or stage at a time; step by step