pas
/pa/
The English phrase 'step' can be translated into French as pas.
The noun pas refers to a single step taken by a foot. For instance, the phrase pas à pas is used to describe a process happening one step at a time or incrementally. If you are referring to a 'step' in the sense of a stage in a process or a milestone, the word étape is more commonly used.
Meaning: a distinct part of a process, stage, phase (noun)
Which one should you use?
While pas refers to a physical step or a single movement, étape is the more common word for a 'step' in the sense of a stage in a process or a milestone.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb marcher can be used to mean walking or going on foot, while the phrase faire un pas is used specifically to express the act of moving the foot in walking.
How do you pronounce it?
/pa/
Did you know?
- The most common word for 'not' in French, pas, actually began as the word for 'step'. It was originally used to say someone did 'not' move 'a step'.
- In the world of ballet, a pas refers to a specific choreographed movement or step, such as the famous pas de deux performed by two dancers.
- The French word étape for a process 'step' is also used to describe the daily stages of the Tour de France, where each day's ride is an étape.
Examples in context
- Avançons pas à pas.Let's take it one step at a time.This sentence demonstrates the use of pas in the phrase 'pas à pas' to mean one step at a time.Tatoeba #12649149 by lbdx, translation #5318443 by Hybrid
- C'est le premier pas.That is the first step.This sentence uses pas to identify the first step of a process.Tatoeba #4218275 by sacredceltic, translation #4193776 by tinowls
- Fais un pas en avant.Step forward.This sentence uses pas to instruct someone to move a foot forward.Tatoeba #6465522 by Aiji, translation #2111507 by CK
- Je vais faire un pas en avant.I am going to take a step forward.
- Fais attention à la dernière marche.Be careful with the last step.
- Elle a appris différents pas de danse.She learned different dance steps.
- 79 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Gabriel and Emma are discussing a new project.
- GabrielC'est un pas important pour nous.It is an important step for us.
- EmmaOui, mais c'est un pas difficile.Yes, but it is a difficult step.
- GabrielOn doit suivre chaque pas avec soin.We must follow every step with care.
- EmmaJe suis d'accord avec toi, Gabriel.I agree with you, Gabriel.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry pas, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries pas, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
