an act of lifting and setting down the foot or alternate feet, as in walking, a particular way of walking, a short distance covered with a single movement of the foot

get a step on, watch your step, take steps

step by step, step up, step down

Formal and Informal Expressions of step

In different contexts, you can replace 'step' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'pace, stride' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'footstep, move' is a commonplace synonym.

step: Explore its Definition & Usage

step Definition

1an act of lifting and setting down the foot or alternate feet, as in walking
2a particular way of walking
3a short distance covered with a single movement of the foot

Using step: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "step" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
She took a step forward.
Example
He walked with a heavy step.
Example
I heard his steps approaching.
Example
She climbed the steps to the top of the tower.

step Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for step

Antonyms for step

immobility
standstill

Idioms Using step

get a step on
to start doing something before others do
Example
If we want to win the competition, we need to get a step on our competitors.
watch your step
be careful about what you do or say
Example
You need to watch your step when dealing with difficult customers.
take steps
to take action to achieve a particular goal or to solve a problem
Example
The government is taking steps to reduce unemployment rates.

Phrases with step

step by step
gradually and carefully, taking one stage at a time
Example
We need to approach this project step by step.
step up
to increase or improve something
Example
We need to step up our efforts if we want to finish this project on time.
step down
to resign from a position or reduce one's involvement in something
Example
The CEO decided to step down from his position after the company's financial losses.

Origins of step

from Old English 'stæpe', meaning 'footstep'

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Summary: step in Brief

The term 'step' [step] refers to the act of lifting and setting down the foot while walking, or a particular way of walking. It can also denote a short distance covered with a single movement of the foot. 'Step' is used in phrases like 'step by step,' indicating gradual progress, and idioms like 'watch your step,' meaning to be careful. 'Step' can also be used in the context of taking action, as in 'The government is taking steps to reduce unemployment rates.'