B2adjective 1K

Steep

🇬🇧 UK /["/stiːp/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/stiːp/"]/

Meaning of Steep

rising or falling quickly, not gradually

In simple words: Having a sharp incline or slope.

Steep in a sentence

• a **steep hill/slope**
• a steep climb/descent/drop
• a steep flight of stairs
• The path grew steeper as we climbed higher.
• The steep banks of the river are largely tree-covered.
• a **steep decline** in the birth rate
• a steep rise in unemployment
• Setting up a new business is risky and involves a **steep learning curve**.
• £4 for a cup of coffee seems a little steep to me.
• He wants to move in here with us? That’s a bit steep!

How to use Steep

Use 'steep' to describe hills, prices, or changes in situation. It has a neutral register, making it appropriate for both casual and formal situations. Avoid using it with soft or gentle contexts.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of a steep hill and how steep it sounds!

Related words

Collocations with Steep

• be
• look
• seem
• extremely
• fairly
• very

Synonyms for Steep

• sharp
• expensive

Opposites of Steep

• shallow
• gentle

Common mistakes with Steep

• Confused with 'steeped' which means soaked.
• Using 'steep' for flat surfaces.
• Incorrectly describing a gradual slope as 'steep'.

Frequently asked questions about Steep

What does Steep mean?

Having a sharp incline or slope.

What is the definition of Steep?

rising or falling quickly, not gradually

How do you use Steep in a sentence?

a **steep hill/slope**

Can you give another example of Steep?

a steep climb/descent/drop

What are synonyms for Steep?

Common alternatives include sharp, expensive.

What is the opposite of Steep?

Opposite meanings include shallow, gentle.

What words go with Steep?

It commonly pairs with be, look, seem, extremely, fairly, very.

What are common mistakes when using Steep?

Confused with 'steeped' which means soaked. Using 'steep' for flat surfaces. Incorrectly describing a gradual slope as 'steep'.

How do you pronounce Steep?

US: /["/stiːp/"]/, UK: /["/stiːp/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Steep?

Use 'steep' to describe hills, prices, or changes in situation. It has a neutral register, making it appropriate for both casual and formal situations. Avoid using it with soft or gentle contexts.

What CEFR level is Steep?

"Steep" is at B2 level on the CEFR scale.