Steep: meaning, definitions and examples

Describes a slope that rises or falls sharply. Commonly used in casual conversation, hiking, or describing prices.

• The trail is too steep for beginners.
• The steep increase in rent has made living here unaffordable.

Used in more formal or dramatic contexts to describe a very steep or sudden drop. Often found in literature or academic writing.

• They carefully navigated the precipitous path down the mountain.
• The precipitous decline in stocks left many investors worried.

Typically describes a very steep or almost vertical surface. Can also refer to something that is complete or absolute. In physical descriptions, it often adds a sense of extreme sharpness.

• The climbers faced a sheer rock face.
• Her success was a result of sheer determination.

Specifically describes something aligned along an up-and-down axis, fully perpendicular to the horizontal plane. Commonly used in technical descriptions or in geometry.

• The ladder must be placed in a vertical position against the wall.
• A tree grows in a vertical direction.

Used to describe a sharp rise or incline, often in prices, costs, or terrain. It implies a sudden or significant change.

• The cost of living has seen a steep increase this year
• The hill was too steep to climb easily

A general term for any rise in quantity, size, value, or degree. It is neutral and can apply to various scenarios.

• The increase in demand led to higher prices
• The population has been steadily increasing over the past decade

Often used in the context of salaries, funds, or any situation where an uplift is involved. It is neutral and also means to lift something.

• The company decided to raise salaries by 5% this year
• Please raise your hand if you have a question

Refers to a sudden or substantial increase, typically in prices or rates. It can also mean a long walk in nature.

• The company announced a sudden hike in subscription fees
• They went for a hike in the mountains over the weekend