dar un paso
/daɾ un paso/from spelling rules
To take a step in Spanish is dar un paso.
The phrase dar un paso can be used literally to describe physical movement, such as moving one's foot forward to travel a short distance. It is also used figuratively to describe making progress or taking action in a specific situation.
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, the phrase translates to to give a step.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Mexico, you may hear the phrase Dar un pasito adelante to express the idea of taking a little step forward.
How does it change in a sentence?
If you want to say 'to take one more step', add the word más after the noun paso to form dar un paso más.
How do you pronounce it?
/daɾ un paso/
Did you know?
- In Spanish, the word paso is also used to describe a mountain pass or a pedestrian crossing.
- The phrase dar el paso is often used in Spanish to describe a major life decision, such as getting married or starting a business.
- The word paso comes from the Latin passus, which literally meant 'spread out' or 'stretch'.
Examples in context
- No se atrevía a dar un paso más, sabía que en cuanto cruzase la puerta no habría vuelta atrás.He didn't dare take a step further, he knew that once he crossed the doorstep there would be no going back.This sentence shows the use of dar un paso in a context involving a sense of hesitation or a point of no return.Tatoeba #2389555 by Shishir, translation #5930331 by mailohilohi
- Debes dar un paso hacia adelante para salir del círculo.You must take a step forward to get out of the circle.
- Él no pudo dar un paso por el hielo.He could not take a step because of the ice.
Example conversation
Mateo and Elena are walking through a narrow, muddy path.
- ElenaTen cuidado, Mateo, el suelo está muy resbaladizo.Be careful, Mateo, the ground is very slippery.
- MateoLo sé, es difícil dar un paso sin caerme.I know, it is difficult to take a step without falling.
- ElenaIntenta dar un paso con mucha calma.Try to take a step very calmly.
- MateoGracias, Elena, lo intentaré.Thanks, Elena, I will try.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries dar, paso, un, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
