happening or changing in a series of regular stages

I took a stepwise approach, figuring out the problem first, then searching for possible solutions. 我采用了循序渐进的方法，先弄清问题，再寻找可能的解决办法。

used to describe a change from a musical note to the note that is next to it in a scale (= a series of notes)

The theme of Elgar's Enigma Variations is greatly enhanced by the stepwise movement of the bass. 埃尔加《英格玛变奏曲》的主题通过低音的阶梯式级进得到了极大的加强。

the stepwise motion from C to D 从C到D的级进

gradually, in a series of regular stages

He did not try to erase the existing business model entirely; he is changing things stepwise. 他并没有试图一次性消除现有的商业模式，而是在循序渐进地做出改变。