Pronunciation

/ˈfʊtsteɪp/

Definitions

• Noun: The impression made by a foot on a surface while walking; the sound produced by this action, or the act of stepping itself. For example: “His footstep echoed through the empty hallway.”
• Noun (figurative): A step in a process, journey, or progression; a stage or phase in development. Example: “The first footstep towards success is setting clear goals.”

Example Sentences

• Literal Noun: “She heard his heavy footsteps approaching down the stairs.”
• Figurative Noun: “Taking that job was a significant footstep towards achieving her career ambitions.”

Phrases

• “Follow in someone’s footsteps”: To emulate or pursue the same path as someone who has achieved success or recognition. Example: “She decided to follow in her mother’s footsteps and become a doctor.”
• “Make one’s own footstep”: To create a unique path or legacy for oneself rather than copying others. Example: “He wanted to make his own footstep in the music industry instead of being compared to his famous father.”

Synonyms

• Footfall
• Step
• Tread
• Pace
• Track (in the context of literal footprints)
• Progression (in the context of figurative steps)
• Advance (in the context of stages or progress)