Meaning and Usage
The adverb '조금씩' means 'a little at a time' or 'little by little.' It is used to describe gradual progress or small increments in actions or changes. It often implies patience and steady effort.
Common Contexts
You will frequently hear '조금씩' in daily conversations about habits, learning, saving money, or recovery processes. It emphasizes that something is happening slowly but surely.
Collocations and Patterns
- 조금씩 하다: to do something little by little, emphasizing gradual effort.
- 조금씩 늘다: to increase little by little, often used for skills or quantities.
- 조금씩 좋아지다: to get better little by little, common in health or feelings.
Register and Politeness
'조금씩' is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts without change.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse '조금씩' with '조금' alone. '조금' means 'a little' but does not imply gradual progression. Use '조금씩' when emphasizing incremental or repeated small amounts over time.