a step behind

USAGE SUMMARY

"a step behind" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe being slightly behind or behind in progress compared to someone else. For example, "I felt like I was always a step behind my classmates during exams."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But when your most valuable offensive player is a step behind, it is conspicuous.

The New York Times - Sports

"He has always been a step behind," Mr. Bonini of La Repubblica said.

The New York Times

You're always a step behind; never quite fast enough to reach out and stop it from crumbling.

The Guardian

Even in America, where cellphone sophistication always seems a step behind, many phones are starting to find their way underground.

The New York Times

Did the Ducks feel a step behind?

Los Angeles Times

Malisse was a step behind, even on clay.

Huffington Post

"I was a step behind.

The New York Times - Sports

Every time I was a step behind".

The New York Times - Sports

"We keep a step behind".

The Guardian

"He was a step behind.

The New York Times - Sports

But still a step behind the Rams.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a step behind", ensure the context clearly indicates what or who is being lagged. For instance, specify whether it's "a step behind" in technology, progress, or competition.

Common error

Be precise in your writing to ensure the reader understands who or what is "a step behind". Failing to provide sufficient context can lead to confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a step behind" primarily functions as an adjectival phrase. It modifies a noun or pronoun to indicate a state of being less advanced or lagging in progress. Ludwig examples show its use across various contexts, confirming its adjectival role.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Science

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a step behind" is a common and grammatically correct adjectival phrase used to describe something or someone lagging or not as advanced as others. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its primary function is to indicate a relative disadvantage, often found in neutral contexts like news and media. While it can be used in more formal settings, it is most prevalent in general conversations and journalistic writing. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what or who is being compared and what is being lagged.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slightly lagging

Focuses on the act of trailing slightly, emphasizing the minimal difference in position.

marginally behind

Stresses the small degree of being in a trailing position or state.

somewhat trailing

Highlights the action of following behind, implying a moderate difference in advancement.

falling slightly short

Emphasizes a small deficiency or failure to meet a certain standard or expectation.

slightly outpaced

Highlights the action of being overtaken by someone or something else, with a small margin.

somewhat delayed

Focuses on the state of being postponed or late, with a mild connotation.

not quite up to speed

Highlights a lack of full readiness or efficiency in performing a task or activity.

not quite on par

Emphasizes a lack of equality or equivalence in terms of quality or progress.

a notch below

Indicates a position that is slightly lower in rank, quality, or status.

a little slow on the uptake

Indicates a slower understanding or reaction time compared to others.

FAQs

How can I use "a step behind" in a sentence?

You can use "a step behind" to indicate that someone or something is lagging or not as advanced as others. For example, "Our company is "a step behind" in adopting new technologies compared to our competitors."

What does it mean to be "a step behind"?

Being "a step behind" means that you are not as advanced, knowledgeable, or up-to-date as someone or something else. It implies a slight disadvantage or a need to catch up.

Are there alternative ways to say "a step behind"?

Yes, you can use phrases like "slightly lagging", "not quite on par", or "somewhat trailing" as alternatives to "a step behind".

Is "a step behind" a formal or informal expression?

"A step behind" is a relatively neutral expression that can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though it's more commonly found in news and media or general conversations.