taking steps

Meanings

1. 1phraseidiom

   Doing things in order to deal with a problem or reach a goal.

   Grammar: Often followed by to + infinitive: taking steps to improve.

   Patterns

   • taking steps to do something
   • taking steps toward something
   • taking steps against something

   The company is taking steps to reduce its waste.

   They are taking steps toward a healthier lifestyle.

   The government is taking steps against online fraud.

2. 2phraseidiom

   Moving by putting one foot in front of the other, literally walking.

   Grammar: This literal meaning is less common and usually clear from context, such as 'taking steps forward'.

   Patterns

   • taking steps forward
   • taking steps toward something

   The hiker was taking steps carefully along the narrow path.

   She was taking steps toward the door when the phone rang.

Common combinations

taking steps to improve

The school is taking steps to improve student attendance.

taking steps to ensure

We are taking steps to ensure everyone's safety.

taking steps toward peace

Both sides are taking steps toward peace.

taking steps against corruption

The new mayor is taking steps against corruption.

Synonyms and how they differ

measures

A noun meaning actions taken; 'taking steps' is the verb phrase and focuses on the process.

actions

More general; 'taking steps' suggests a series of planned moves toward a goal.

initiatives

Often used for new plans; 'taking steps' is more about concrete actions already underway.

Opposites

Word family

step noun

A single action in a series, or a movement of the foot.

take steps phrase

The base form of the idiom.

Commonly confused: taking steps or taking a step?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “taking steps”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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