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step

The word "step" is very versatile and can be used as both a thing (noun) and an action (verb). When using it as a noun to mean an action, it is often used in the plural form ("taking steps") when referring to a process or a plan. As a verb, remember that "step on" usually means to put your weight on something, while "step over" means to cross something without touching it.

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon, Chloe is in her college library while David is at his office.

David Smith

Just thinking outside the box here. What's the next step for your degree?

Chloe Smith

Taking a nap and praying my loans vanish is a big step.

💡

David uses the corporate buzzword 'thinking outside the box' to sound visionary, while Chloe responds with sarcasm about her financial anxiety and 'adulting', using 'step' in the sense of an action taken toward a goal.

Meanings

noun

An act of lifting the foot and setting it down again in order to walk.

"She took a cautious step toward the edge of the cliff."

noun

A stair or a series of stairs.

"He sat on the bottom step of the porch."

noun

An action taken to achieve a particular purpose.

"The company is taking steps to reduce carbon emissions."

verb (intransitive)

To move by lifting and setting down the foot.

"He stepped carefully over the puddle."

verb (transitive)

To tread or put the foot on something.

"Be careful not to step on the flower bed."

Last Updated: May 22, 2026•Report an Error