on those steps

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on those steps" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a specific location or position on a set of steps, often in a physical or metaphorical context. Example: "She paused for a moment on those steps, taking in the view of the bustling street below."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

Every time I walk up the stairs at the West Fourth Street subway stop on my way to the Comedy Cellar, I find myself bouncing from one leg to the other, the way that Louis C. K. does on those steps in the intro to his popular summer series on FX.

The New York Times - Arts

And, after arriving there: "Watch out on those steps — they're icy.

The New York Times

Nine months later, the agency is still working on those steps.

The Guardian

They then expand on those steps, which they call phase zero, learning tour, and affinity groups.

Harvard Business Review

In the summer, Ashley spends nearly every evening on those steps, watching her friends attempt skateboard tricks and occasionally getting up the nerve to try one herself.

The New York Times

Studies investigating associations of acculturation with disease risk should identify and intervene on those steps in the acculturation process that are most strongly associated with unhealthful dietary changes.

Journal of the American Dietetic Association

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

Today, I am writing to update you on some of those steps.

Cornell University

To quote Heraclitus, "On those stepping into rivers the same, other and other waters flow".

Vice

Like the other pieces, it was hampered by Ms. Lavagnino's focus on steps themselves rather than on what those steps could express or where they could take the dancers.

The New York Times - Arts

It allows you to raise your eyes up from the day-to-day and focus your efforts on taking those steps that will most support you to create the life you want.

Forbes

But sometimes we are so focused on getting those steps in that we forget to notice the things around us, like the gorgeous colors in the changing leaves, a nearby dragonfly or hummingbird, or even our neighbor in his yard.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "on those steps", ensure the context clearly indicates which steps are being referenced to avoid ambiguity. If the specific steps are already known in the conversation, using "on those steps" is appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "on those steps" when the context does not clearly establish which steps are being referred to. If the specific steps are not evident, provide more clarity by specifying the location or adding descriptive details.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on those steps" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or noun by indicating location. As supported by Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It specifies where an action takes place or where something is situated.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Academia

24%

Science

12%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

4%

Science

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on those steps" is a grammatically sound and commonly used prepositional phrase that specifies a location. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and useful in written English, appearing in a variety of contexts from News & Media to Academia and Science. When using "on those steps", ensure the context provides a clear reference to which steps are being indicated. While alternative phrases like "upon those steps" or "near those steps" can be used, "on those steps" provides a direct and clear way to describe a position or action related to a specific set of steps.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

upon those steps

Formal variation using "upon" instead of "on", implying a slightly more elevated or ceremonial context.

at those steps

Focuses on the specific location rather than the action or state of being on the steps.

on that staircase

Replaces "steps" with "staircase" focusing on the architectural structure.

on that stairway

Similar to "on that staircase", using "stairway" to emphasize the path.

at the foot of those steps

Specifies the lower part of the steps, changing the spatial focus.

near those steps

Indicates proximity rather than direct contact or action on the steps.

by those steps

Similar to "near those steps", suggesting a position adjacent to the steps.

along those steps

Emphasizes movement or action along the length of the steps.

ascending those steps

Focuses on the action of going up the steps.

descending those steps

Focuses on the action of going down the steps.

FAQs

How can I use "on those steps" in a sentence?

You can use "on those steps" to describe a location or an action taking place on a particular set of steps. For example, "She paused "on those steps", taking in the view of the city."

What phrases are similar to "on those steps"?

Alternatives include "upon those steps", which is a more formal variation, or "near those steps", if you mean to be in proximity to them, not directly on them.

Is it ever incorrect to use "on those steps"?

It would be incorrect if the context doesn't make it clear which steps you are referring to. Ensure the reference is specific. You may use alternative such as "on the steps of the building".

How does "on those steps" differ from "on these steps"?

"On those steps" typically refers to a set of steps that are not immediately present or have been previously mentioned. "On these steps" implies the steps are currently being indicated or are in close proximity.