Meaning
This idiom describes accomplishing something completely and correctly in just one action, without needing adjustments or additional steps. It emphasizes efficiency and thoroughness, suggesting that the task is done properly from start to finish without requiring a gradual or phased approach.
Usage
Commonly used in business, planning, and problem-solving contexts to express the desire or ability to complete something definitively in one go. Often appears in discussions about reforms, solutions, or methods. Can be used positively to praise efficiency, or sometimes with skepticism when questioning whether something complex can truly be done all at once.
Examples
- 01这个问题很复杂，不可能一步到位地解决。, .This problem is very complex; it's impossible to solve it all at once.
- 02我们希望这次改革能一步到位，避免以后再调整。, .We hope this reform can be completed properly in one go, avoiding further adjustments later.
Characters
Common collocations
- 一步到位地解决to solve once and for all
- 很难一步到位difficult to accomplish in one go
- 争取一步到位strive to get it right in one step
Antonyms
Origin
Literally means 'one step arrives at position,' combining the concept of taking a single step with reaching the exact target or proper position. The phrase emerged from everyday language describing direct, efficient action.