What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the adjective prossimo (meaning next or nearest) and the noun passo (meaning step).
Which one should you use?
While prossimo passo is the standard, you might use prossima tappa or prossima fase in formal contexts. In informal settings, you can use prossima mossa or the anglicism prossimo step, the latter of which is frequently used when discussing technological or digital processes.
How does it change in a sentence?
Because passo is a masculine singular noun, the definite article used is il (e.g., il prossimo passo). To express the plural 'next steps', both the adjective and the noun must be pluralized to i prossimi passi. The word successivo can also be used to mean 'next'.
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation is /ˈprɔs.si.mo ˈpas.so/. It has 5 syllables, with the stress on the first syllable.
Did you know?
- The word passo can also refer to a mountain pass, such as Passo dello Stelvio, because these are the points where travelers traditionally 'stepped' over the divide.
- The adjective prossimo can also be used to describe a relative, such as il mio prossimo, which in certain religious or archaic contexts refers to 'one's neighbor'.
- Using prossima mossa to mean 'next step' literally translates to 'next move', which evokes the imagery of a chess match or a strategic game.
Examples in context
- Tom è pronto per il prossimo passo.Tom is ready for the next step.This sentence shows how to use prossimo passo to indicate readiness for a stage.Tatoeba #7925834 by Guybrush88, translation #7126305 by CM
- Il mio prossimo passo è scoprire il perché.My next step is to find out why.This sentence illustrates using prossimo passo to describe a personal goal or investigation.Tatoeba #8719531 by Guybrush88, translation #8570183 by CK
- M sento smarrito e insucuro sul mio prossimo passo.I'm feeling lost and unsure of my next step.This sentence demonstrates expressing uncertainty regarding one's prossimo passo.Tatoeba #13500707 by Nuel, translation #13500706 by Nuel
- Il prossimo passo è presentare i risultati della ricerca.The next step is to present the research findings.
- Qual è la tua prossima mossa nel gioco?What's your next move in the game?
- 1 more sentence on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Chiara and Alessandro are discussing a business project.
- ChiaraAbbiamo finito la prima fase del progetto.We have finished the first phase of the project.
- AlessandroQual è il prossimo passo per noi?What is the next step for us?
- ChiaraDobbiamo contattare il cliente domani.We need to contact the client tomorrow.
- AlessandroVa bene, organizzo io l'appuntamento.Alright, I will organize the appointment.
Sources
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (prossimo, passo) and can differ in connected speech.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
