～ずつ

～ずつ is used to express distribution or division in small portions, or to indicate gradual progression. It follows a noun or a numeral to mean “in groups of” or “per item,” and it can also form the adverbial phrase 少しずつ meaning “little by little.” It emphasizes that actions or quantities are divided, repeated, or increased step by step rather than all at once. Note that when using it with numbers, the noun after the number is typically a counter or a group noun (人, 枚, etc.). When using 少しずつ, it functions as an adverb modifying the verb, implying gradual change. Typical contexts include tasks divided among people, gradual changes over time, or actions performed one by one. Examples: - 一人ずつ前へ進んでください。/ Please step forward one person at a time. - 五人ずつに分けて発表します。/ We will split into groups of five and present. - 少しずつ進んでいます。/ We’re progressing little by little. - 一日ずつ練習を重ねる。/ Practice day by day (one day at a time). - 質問は一問ずつ答えてください。/ Please answer the questions one by one.