Language Research

step · noun C

/step/Full view

step (FOOT MOVEMENT)

B1 one of the movements you make with your feet when you walk

Dictionary examples:

Sophie took her first steps when she was eleven months old.

He rose to his feet and took a couple of steps toward her.

With every step, her feet hurt her more and more.

Learner example:

I tried to run but with my first step, I kicked something that fell to the floor. (Preliminary English Test; B1; Spanish)

step (STAIR)

B1 one of the surfaces that you walk on when you go up or down stairs

Dictionary example:

Mom took a picture of us sitting on the front steps of the house.

Learner example:

I go down four steps and I am [o]n the beach! (Preliminary English Test; B1; Spanish)

step (STAGE)

B2 one of the things that you do to achieve something

Dictionary examples:

What's the next step in the instructions?

We must stay one step ahead of our competitors.

Most people believe that the decision to cut interest rates was a step in the right direction.

The President took the unusual step of altering his prepared speech.

Learner example:

We'd like to know how it feels to be in the film business, how you started and the steps you've taken to be where you are now. (First Certificate in English; B2; Portuguese)

step by step

C1 moving slowly from one stage of something to the next

Dictionary example:

I know there's a lot to prepare, but just take things step by step and don't worry.

Learner example:

The book actually guides you step by step on how you can cope with this fear and defeat it. (Certificate in Advanced English; C1; Turkish)

retrace your steps

C2 to go back somewhere the same way that you came

Dictionary example:

I was lost so I retraced my steps.

Learner example:

Mentally retracing his steps of the morning, he remembered rushing out of his place at the last minute. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Italian)

step · verb

/step/

step back/forward/over, etc.

B1 to move somewhere by lifting your foot and putting it down in a different place

Dictionary examples:

She stepped carefully over the dog.

She stepped backward and fell over a chair.

They stepped out onto the balcony.

Learner example:

The moment he stepped out of the train he realized he had left his suitcase inside. (Preliminary English Test; B1; Spanish)

step on/in sth

B1 to put your foot on or in something

Dictionary examples:

I accidentally stepped on her foot.

Be careful not to step in the mud.

Learner example:

I ha[d] to dance with a boy [whose] name is Alex and every time he stepped on my feet. (Preliminary English Test; B1; German)

step down

C2 to leave an important job

Dictionary example:

She stepped down as captain of the swim team.

Learner example:

Thus, he decided to retire, to step down from the tough and competitive environment and planned for the rest of his life. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Chinese)