schreiten
to stride
To walk slowly and with large, measured steps, often in a formal or ceremonial context.
EXAMPLE
Das Brautpaar schritt langsam zum Altar.
The bridal couple slowly strode to the altar.
schreiten
to stride
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Meanings
zur Tat schreiten
to take action
To begin to act; to put something that has been planned or discussed into action.
EXAMPLE
Nach langer Diskussion müssen wir nun endlich zur Tat schreiten.
After a long discussion, we must finally take action now.
Usage tips
Perfect tense with 'sein'
Since 'schreiten' (to stride) expresses movement, the perfect tense is always formed with the auxiliary verb 'sein' (to be). The past tense form is irregular: er schritt, er ist geschritten.
EXAMPLE
Der Präsident ist zur Bühne geschritten, um seine Rede zu halten.
The president strode to the stage to give his speech.
Word family
The verb 'schreiten' (to stride) is the basis for other important verbs that describe a form of movement or development, such as 'einschreiten' (to intervene) or 'fortschreiten' (to progress).
EXAMPLE
Die Bauarbeiten am neuen Bahnhof schreiten gut voran.
Construction work on the new train station is progressing well.
Elevated style
In its basic meaning, 'schreiten' (to stride) is a very formal and elevated word for 'gehen' (to go/walk). It is used for slow, dignified, or ceremonial movements.
EXAMPLE
Die Models schritten elegant über den Laufsteg.
The models strode elegantly down the runway.
Fixed expression
The expression 'zur Tat schreiten' means to start taking action. It means that after a phase of planning or hesitation, you begin to act.
EXAMPLE
Genug geredet, lasst uns endlich zur Tat schreiten!
Enough talking, let's finally take action!
Compare with
schreiten vs gehen
to go
Gehen and schreiten both describe moving on foot. Gehen is neutral and common in everyday language, while schreiten highlights slow, measured steps and often creates a formal or ceremonial impression. Use gehen for ordinary journeys; for a ceremonial movement, schreiten may be more suitable.
schreiten
Die Gäste schreiten langsam durch den festlich geschmückten Saal.
The guests stride slowly through the festively decorated hall.
gehen
Die Gäste gehen langsam durch den Saal.
The guests walk slowly through the hall.
In real life
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