noun / measure word HSK 2
step · pace · stage · measure word for steps
Meaning
步 refers to a single step or pace taken while walking. It can be used as a noun meaning 'step' or as a measure word to count steps. The character depicts a foot (止) moving forward, capturing the fundamental concept of walking and progression.
Usage
步 is commonly used both as a standalone noun and in many compound words related to walking, progress, or stages. As a measure word, it counts steps: 走了三步 (walked three steps). It frequently appears in formal or literary expressions about progress or stages in a process.
Examples
- 01他向前走了几步。.He walked forward a few steps.
- 02我们要一步一步地解决这个问题。.We need to solve this problem step by step.
Measure words
- 步走了十步
Common collocations
- 一步一步step by step
- 下一步next step
- 初步initial, preliminary
- 进一步a step further, further
Origin
The character 步 originally depicted two feet, one above the other, showing the action of taking a step forward. The ancient form combined two 止 (foot) radicals to represent the alternating movement of walking.