Missteps Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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missteps

[ˈmɪsˌstɛps ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in dance

A mistake in a sequence of steps or movements, especially in dance.

Synonyms

blunder, error, mistake, slip-up.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
missteps	Suitable for minor or moderate issues, typically in a more formal or professional context. It often implies a small unintended mistake. The company had a few missteps during the project, but they managed to recover
mistake	Versatile and general term for any incorrect action, decision, or judgment. It can apply to both casual and formal contexts. It was a mistake to forget her birthday
slip-up	Informal term that implies a minor and often forgivable error. It's less serious and is typically used in casual conversation. He had a little slip-up and missed the meeting, but it wasn't a big deal
blunder	Used when referring to a serious mistake, often one made due to carelessness or misunderstanding. It tends to have a negative connotation. Leaving the door unlocked was a major blunder that led to the theft
error	Commonly used in technical or computational contexts, or to indicate a factual mistake. It's neutral and can refer to both small and large mistakes. There was an error in the calculation that affected the final results

Examples of usage

She made a few missteps during the routine.
After a couple of missteps, she regained her balance and continued dancing.
The missteps in the performance were noticeable to the audience.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

in a plan or action

To make an error or mistake in judgment or action.

Synonyms

blunder, err, falter, stumble.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
missteps	Used for minor mistakes or small errors in judgment, often in a social or professional situation. He made a few missteps during the presentation, but overall it went well Her career had some minor missteps, but she recovered quickly
err	Used in formal or literary contexts to indicate making a mistake, often in judgment or decision-making. To err is human, to forgive divine He erred in his calculations and had to start over
blunder	Describes a significant and often embarrassing mistake caused by carelessness or lack of thought. His blunder cost the company millions of dollars She realized her social blunder too late to correct it
stumble	Typically used to describe someone physically tripping or making an error in speech or action; can also refer to minor mistakes. He stumbled over his words during the interview She stumbled upon the correct answer by accident
falter	Refers to losing strength, momentum, or confidence; often used when someone becomes unsure or hesitant. She began to falter in her speech when she saw the audience's reaction He faltered for a moment but then regained his composure

Examples of usage

He misstepped by trusting the wrong person.
If we misstep now, it could jeopardize the entire project.
The team cannot afford to misstep in this crucial stage.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'missteps'

The word 'missteps' originated from the combination of 'mis-' meaning badly or wrongly, and 'steps' referring to movements or actions. It first appeared in the English language in the early 18th century. The term is commonly used in dance contexts to describe errors in choreographed routines or sequences of steps. Over time, 'missteps' has evolved to also encompass mistakes or errors in judgment or actions in various contexts.

See also: misstep, overstep, sidestep, step, steppe, stepping, steps.