Answer: The phrase "incremental and suggestive rather than definitive" means that something is happening or being done gradually and in small steps, rather than in a clear and decisive manner. It implies that the actions or changes are intended to suggest a direction or outcome, but may not necessarily produce a final, comprehensive solution.
Explanation: The phrase "incremental and suggestive rather than definitive" in this context means that the measures taken to check Japan were small, gradual steps rather than clear, decisive actions. They were intended to signal a stance against Japan, but were not necessarily meant to solve the problem definitively.