# piecemeal

/ˈpisˌmiɫ/ (US) · /pˈiːsmˌiːl/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/piecemeal
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. done in stages

adjective · CEFR C1 · Academic

done or made in small amounts or stages over time, rather than as a single complete plan.

For teachers: characterised by unsystematic or incremental development; occurring in separate parts rather than as a unified whole.

- The old house was repaired in a piecemeal way over many years.
- The government's piecemeal approach to healthcare reform has led to significant inconsistencies in service quality across different regions.

Usage: Usually placed before the noun it modifies.

### 2. bit by bit

adverb · CEFR C1 · Formal

happening gradually, one piece at a time.

For teachers: in a fragmented or incremental manner; piece by piece.

- The new regulations were introduced piecemeal to avoid shocking the market.
- The evidence was released piecemeal to the press, ensuring the story remained in the headlines for several weeks.

Usage: Typically functions as an adverb of manner following the verb.

## Examples

- The company is updating its software piecemeal over several months.
- The city council decided to renovate the old library piecemeal to avoid disrupting the students.
- Rather than attempting a total overhaul of the legal system, the government chose a piecemeal approach, addressing each specific flaw as it became a public concern.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.