Piecemeal

/ˈpiːsmiːl/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Characterized by or done in separate parts or pieces; not in a continuous or comprehensive manner.

The renovation of the old building was carried out in a piecemeal fashion, which led to a disorganized result.

Fragmentary; occurring in segments rather than all at once.

The project's implementation was piecemeal, making it difficult to assess the overall impact.

adverb

In a way that is partial or in stages; not all at once.

The new policy was adopted piecemeal, with various sections approved at different times.

Gradually; in a piecemeal manner.

The company made improvements to the software piecemeal, responding to user feedback incrementally.

Derived from the phrase 'piece by piece', indicating a gradual process.

piecemeal approach

A method of doing a task step by step rather than all at once.

a piecemeal solution

A solution that addresses some aspects of a problem but not its entirety.

partial

Not complete; only part.

incremental

Relating to small, gradual increases.

fragmented

Broken or divided into parts.

Taking things slow

I’m doing it piecemeal, just taking my time with it.