Stepping Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ถ
stepping
[หstษpษชล ]
Definitions
physical movement
The act of moving by raising one foot and putting it down in front of the other, typically in a repeated rhythm.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| stepping |
Used to describe the act of lifting and placing one's foot in a careful or deliberate way.
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| walking |
General term for moving on foot at a moderate speed.
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| striding |
Describes walking with long, decisive steps, often indicating confidence or urgency.
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| marching |
Typically refers to walking in a steady, rhythmic pattern, often as part of a group or in a military context.
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Examples of usage
- She heard the stepping of someone approaching in the dark alley.
- The sound of his steady stepping echoed through the empty hallway.
progression
The action of taking a series of steps in a particular direction or towards a specific goal.
Synonyms
advancement, development, progression.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| stepping |
Used when talking about moving forward one step at a time, often literally or metaphorically. It can imply gradual progress or taking small actions towards a goal.
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| progression |
Utilized when describing continuous, often sequential, movement forward. It is suitable for talking about stages or an ongoing sequence of events.
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| advancement |
Applied when referring to a significant improvement, progress, or promotion in position, especially in professional settings. It often suggests a notable move forward.
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| development |
Best used when referring to the process of growth or improvement over time in various fields, such as personal growth, business, technology, etc. It indicates an ongoing process.
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Examples of usage
- Each stepping stone in her career led her closer to her dream job.
- The project required careful stepping to ensure successful completion.
moving with steps
To move in a specified direction by lifting and setting down each foot in turn, typically quickly and with force.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| stepping |
Used when referring to the act of taking steps in a general sense or when focusing on the action of placing one's foot down. It often implies a controlled or careful movement, one step at a time.
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| walk |
Used for the act of moving on foot at a regular, moderate pace. It is the most general and commonly used term for this action.
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| tread |
Used to describe the manner or sound of walking, often with an emphasis on the pressure and impact of the steps. It can also refer to moving with caution or walking in a specific manner.
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| march |
Typically used in the context of organized, rhythmic walking, often in military settings or in the context of protests and rallies. It can also describe the action of walking with a strong, determined pace.
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Examples of usage
- He was stepping rhythmically to the music.
- She carefully stepped over the obstacles in her path.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Practices
- In African American culture, stepping is a dance style that combines elements of choreography, spoken word, and clapping.
- Many cultures have traditional stepping stylesโfrom the elaborate footwork of tap dance to the rhythmic movements in Irish jig.
Science
- Physical activity like stepping can help improve cardiovascular health and maintain a healthy weight.
- Studies show that the average person takes about 4,000 to 18,000 steps a day, depending on lifestyle and activity level.
Psychology
- Movement like stepping can enhance mood by releasing endorphins, making you feel happier.
- Walking has been linked to improved cognitive function, showcasing how physical movement contributes to brain health.
Literature
- In poetry, the act of stepping can symbolize progress or personal growth, often depicted in the journey of a protagonist.
- Classic literature often uses the motif of stepping as a metaphor for life's journey or the choices we make.
Origin of 'stepping'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'step' comes from the Old English 'stรฆep,' which refers to a movement of the foot.
- In Latin, the term 'gradus' relates to steps, emphasizing the progression in walking or movement.
The word 'stepping' originated from the Old English word 'stรฆpe', which meant to tread or walk. Over time, the meaning evolved to include the action of moving by raising and setting down one foot after another. The concept of stepping has been a fundamental part of human movement since ancient times, with various cultural practices incorporating rhythmic and ceremonial stepping. Today, stepping is not only a physical action but also symbolizes progress, advancement, and movement towards a goal.
See also: misstep, missteps, overstep, sidestep, step, steppe, steps.