Phrasal verbs "step down" vs "step out"

Differences between step down and step out

Step down means to resign from a position of authority or power, while step out means to leave a place or situation, often temporarily.

Meanings and Definitions: step down vs step out

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Step down

  • 1Leave a job or position so that someone can take over.

    The CEO STEPPED DOWN after the share price dropped.

  • 2Reduce.

    Production is being STEPPED DOWN because demand has dropped.

Step out

  • 1Leave a place for a very short time.

    They've STEPPED OUT for a cigarette.

Usage Examples: step down, step out in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

step down

Example

The manager decided to step down after many years of service.

Example

She steps down as the president of the company next month.

step out

Example

I need to step out for a minute to make a phone call.

Example

She steps out every afternoon to grab a coffee.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Step down

To formally announce that one is leaving a job or position.

Example

After years of service, the CEO decided to resign from his position and focus on his personal life.

To give up or renounce a position of power or responsibility.

Example

The king was forced to abdicate the throne due to his poor leadership and lack of support from the people.

To voluntarily give up one's position or role to someone else.

Example

The coach decided to step aside and let his assistant take over the team for the rest of the season.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Step out

To pause or rest from an activity or work.

Example

I need to take a break from studying and go for a walk to clear my head.

To leave one's home or workplace and go to a different location.

Example

Let's go out and grab some lunch together.

To leave a place or situation in a deliberate or dramatic way.

Example

After making a speech, the politician made an exit from the stage amidst applause and cheers.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “step”

Phrasal Verbs with “out”

Differences in step down vs step out: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: step down or step out?

In everyday conversation, people use step out more often than step down. This is because step out is used for various situations such as taking a break, going outside, or leaving a social gathering. Step down is less common and mainly used in professional or political contexts when someone resigns from their position.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of step down and step out

Step down and step out are both informal phrases that can be used in casual conversations. However, step down can also be used in formal settings such as business or politics, while step out is more suitable for informal situations.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of step down and step out

The tone of step down and step out can differ based on context. Step down often carries a serious or somber tone when related to resigning from a position, while step out typically has a casual and relaxed tone, especially when referring to taking a break or leaving a social gathering.

step down & step out: Synonyms and Antonyms

Step down

Antonyms

Step out

Synonyms

  • leave briefly
  • go out
  • exit momentarily
  • pop out
  • slip out
  • duck out

Antonyms

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