Meaning: Gradually, a picture started to form as she fitted the pieces together.
Choice of Words: Piece: A part of a whole.
By: Close to or next to something.
Piece: A part of a whole.
Image: A representation of something.
Emerged: Came into view.
Alternative Expressions
Bit by bit, a picture appeared.
Meaning: This means that something gradually became clear or visible, like when you see a picture forming as you put together a puzzle.
Choice of Words:Bit is another word for a small piece of something. By means next to or near something. Picture means an image. Appeared means came into view or became visible. When you put them together, "Bit by bit, a picture appeared" means that a picture slowly became visible, like when you put together a puzzle one piece at a time.
Slowly but surely, the image took shape.
Meaning: This means that something gradually became clear or visible, like when you see a picture forming as you put together a puzzle.
Choice of Words:Slowly means at a gradual pace, not quickly. Surely means definitely or without doubt. Shape means the form or outline of something. Took means assumed or acquired. When you put them together, "Slowly but surely, the image took shape" means that a picture gradually became visible and clear.