Meaning
止步 means to stop walking or to halt one's progress, both literally and figuratively. It's often used in formal or written contexts to describe stopping at a certain point or being unable to advance further. The word combines 止 (to stop) and 步 (step/pace), creating a vivid image of halting one's steps.
Usage
This word is commonly seen on signs meaning 'no entry' or 'do not proceed beyond this point.' It's also used figuratively in sports or competitions to describe a team or individual being eliminated or unable to advance further. The register is somewhat formal or literary compared to casual spoken alternatives like 停下来.
Examples
- 01这支球队在半决赛中止步了。.This team was eliminated in the semifinals.
- 02门口的牌子上写着'闲人止步'。' '.The sign at the entrance reads 'No admittance except on business.'
Characters
Common collocations
- 止步于to stop at, to be halted at
- 闲人止步no admittance except on business
- 止步不前to stop and make no progress
Antonyms
Origin
The compound combines 止 (stop) with 步 (step), literally meaning 'to stop one's steps.' This straightforward construction creates a formal term for halting movement or progress.