What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
footstep
Example
I heard footsteps coming down the hall. [footsteps: noun]
Example
She followed in her father's footsteps and became a doctor. [footsteps: metaphorical use]
Example
He took a cautious footstep forward. [footstep: noun]
footprint
Example
The detective examined the footprint left at the crime scene. [footprint: noun]
Example
The new factory will have a smaller carbon footprint than the old one. [footprint: metaphorical use]
Example
The house has a large footprint, taking up most of the lot. [footprint: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Footprint is more commonly used than footstep in everyday language, especially in the context of environmental impact or building size. Footstep is less common and tends to be used in more specific contexts, such as describing a sound or impression.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between footstep and footprint?
Both footstep and footprint are relatively neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
