by degrees
Gradually; in steps. I've been putting $50 aside every month to increase my savings account by degrees.
by degrees
Gradually, by successive steps or stages. For example, By degrees he began to delegate more and more of his duties to his staff. [Mid-1500s] Also see by inches.
by deˈgrees
little by little; gradually: The country’s economy won’t improve straight away, but will only get better by degrees. by degrees
Little by little; gradually.