What are the definitions of “step forward”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Offer help.
When I had the accident, a lot of people STEPPED FORWARD to help me.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “step forward”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb step forward is to offer help or support to someone in need. It often implies that someone is volunteering or willingly coming forward to provide assistance.
What are the different verb forms of “step forward”?
| Root Verb | step forward |
| Third Person Singular Present | steps forward |
| Present Participle | stepping forward |
| Simple Past | stepped forward |
| Past Participle | stepped forward |
Example
When the teacher asked for volunteers, several students stepped forward.
Example
She always steps forward to help her friends in need.
Example
He is stepping forward to offer his assistance during the crisis.
Example
When I had the accident, a lot of people stepped forward to help me.
Example
Many people have stepped forward to donate to the charity.
What kind of phrasal verb is “step forward”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“step forward” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
When the coach asked for volunteers, John stepped forward.
Example
She stepped forward to share her story with the group.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“step forward” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
When the coach asked for volunteers, John stepped forward.
Example
She stepped forward to share her story with the group.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “step forward”?
A significant advancement or improvement in technology.
Example
The invention of the smartphone was a major step forward in technology.
Good things to know
Does “step forward” have an informal or formal tone?
Step forward is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as business meetings or academic discussions.
