A2noun1K

Step

UK /["/step/"]/US /["/step/"]/

Definition

one of a series of things that you do in order to achieve something

In simple words: To lift your foot and put it down in a new position.

Examples

  • She took a step forward to greet her friend.
  • The first step in the project is crucial for success.
  • He stumbled and almost missed a step on the staircase.
  • The dance requires you to follow each step carefully.
  • Can you show me the step to fix the problem?
  • The company will step in if there are any issues.
  • You need to step up your efforts in this competition.
  • He plans to take a step back from his responsibilities.

Usage notes

Commonly used in both literal and metaphorical contexts. In formal situations, it might refer to stages in a process, while in informal contexts, it can refer to walking or making progress.

Grammar pattern

step + adverb/prepositional phrase

Memory hint

Think of a 'step' as a single move in a dance; each step gets you closer to your goal.

Collocations

  • big
  • considerable
  • giant
  • number
  • series
  • go
  • make
  • take
  • step in
  • step towards/​toward
  • a step closer (to something)
  • a short step from something to something
  • a step back
  • big
  • considerable
  • giant
  • number
  • series
  • go
  • make
  • take
  • step in
  • step towards/​toward
  • a step closer (to something)
  • a short step from something to something
  • a step back
  • large
  • small
  • heavy
  • go
  • take
  • retrace
  • step (away) from
  • step towards/​toward
  • a spring in your step
  • a step ahead
  • a step behind
  • large
  • small
  • heavy
  • go
  • take
  • retrace
  • step (away) from
  • step towards/​toward
  • a spring in your step
  • a step ahead
  • a step behind
  • front
  • back
  • porch
  • flight
  • go up
  • run up
  • walk up
  • lead to something
  • step to
  • step down to
  • step up to
  • the bottom of the steps
  • the foot of the steps
  • the top of the steps
  • dance
  • jive
  • tango
  • execute
  • perform
  • learn
  • in step
  • out of step (with)
  • large
  • small
  • heavy
  • go
  • take
  • retrace
  • step (away) from
  • step towards/​toward
  • a spring in your step
  • a step ahead
  • a step behind

Synonyms

  • stride
  • tread
  • march
  • pace
  • walk

Antonyms

  • stop
  • remain

Common mistakes

  • 'Step' confused with 'staple'
  • Using 'stepped' when 'step' is needed
  • Misusing in idiomatic expressions