01
der Schritt
step
A single movement of the foot when walking or running.
example
Er machte einen vorsichtigen Schritt auf dem glatten Eis.
He took a careful step on the slippery ice.
der Schritt
step
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Context clue
You can recognize the meaning of 'Schritt' (step) from the context. If it is about movement with the feet, the literal meaning is intended. If it is about plans, projects, or processes, it means an action or measure.
EXAMPLE
Sie machte einen großen Schritt nach vorn.
She took a big step forward.
Typical collocations
In the figurative meaning, 'Schritt' (step) is often combined with adjectives like 'wichtig' (important), 'logisch' (logical), or 'entscheidend' (decisive). Typical verbs are 'einen Schritt machen' (to take a step), 'unternehmen' (to take), or 'einleiten' (to initiate).
EXAMPLE
Das war ein entscheidender Schritt für den Erfolg des Projekts.
That was a decisive step for the success of the project.
Fixed expression
The expression 'Schritt für Schritt' (step by step) functions like an adverb and describes that something is done slowly and systematically. It often stands near the verb it describes.
EXAMPLE
Lass uns die Anleitung Schritt für Schritt durchgehen.
Let's go through the instructions step by step.
Fixed expression with dative
The expression 'Schritt halten' (to keep pace) is always used with the preposition 'mit' (with) and the dative. It describes keeping up with the pace or development of someone or something.
EXAMPLE
Die kleine Firma kann mit den großen Konzernen nicht Schritt halten.
The small company cannot keep pace with the large corporations.
Typical collocations
In the literal sense, 'Schritt' (step) is often combined with verbs of movement. Common expressions are 'einen Schritt machen' (to take a step), 'einen Schritt wagen' (to dare to take a step), or 'einen Schritt zurücktreten' (to take a step back).
EXAMPLE
Er wagte einen Schritt auf die wackelige Brücke.
He dared to take a step onto the shaky bridge.
Elevated expression
To describe the manner of walking, you can use a genitive construction, e.g. 'schnellen Schrittes' (with quick steps) or 'leisen Schrittes' (with quiet steps). This is a rather elevated, written style.
EXAMPLE
Er verließ schnellen Schrittes den Raum.
He left the room with quick steps.
Compare with
Schritt vs Aktion
action / sale
'der Schritt' and 'die Aktion' can both mean a deliberate action with which you want to achieve something. 'Schritt' fits especially well when an action is part of a plan or a longer process. It sounds structured: first one step, then the next. 'Aktion' sounds more active and often bigger or more visible. An 'Aktion' can be a single undertaking, sometimes also public or planned by a group. Learners may confuse the words because both describe something that you do. In practical terms: a 'Schritt' is often part of a path toward a goal, while an 'Aktion' is more like a concrete deed or undertaking.
Schritt
Der nächste Schritt ist ein Gespräch mit der Chefin.
The next step is a conversation with the boss.
Aktion
Die Nachbarn planen eine Aktion gegen den Müll im Park.
The neighbors are planning an action against the trash in the park.
In real life
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