out of step

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "out of step" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a person or thing that is out of line with the prevailing opinion or fashion. For example, "The politician's views are out of step with modern society."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But Britain nonetheless looks out of step with its neighbours.

The Economist

New York is clearly out of step.

The New York Times

So, who is out of step?

The New York Times

But I may be out of step.

The New York Times

They had also fallen out of step.

The New Yorker

Out of step with people.

The Guardian

Out of step with the modern world.

The Guardian

They are completely out of step.

The Guardian

We are completely out of step.

The New York Times

I think Jon Corzine's out of step".

The New York Times

And Mr. Kennedy appeared out of step.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "out of step", ensure the context clearly indicates what the subject is out of step with. For example, specify whether it's a trend, opinion, or policy.

Common error

Avoid assuming that being "out of step" automatically implies a negative connotation. Sometimes, being "out of step" can indicate originality or foresight, depending on the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "out of step" functions primarily as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a state of disagreement or nonconformity. It's used to describe something that doesn't align with current trends, opinions, or standards, as seen in Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "out of step" is a commonly used adjective phrase that describes a state of nonconformity or misalignment with current trends or opinions. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and suggests that it is frequently used in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, ensure clarity regarding what the subject is "out of step" with. While it generally maintains a neutral to professional register, it's important to recognize that being "out of step" doesn't always carry a negative connotation; it can also suggest originality or foresight. Related phrases like "marching to a different beat" and "out of sync" offer alternative ways to express similar ideas.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in disagreement with

Directly states the lack of agreement or concurrence.

out of sync

Focuses on the lack of coordination or harmony with others.

at odds with

Highlights the conflict or disagreement with a particular viewpoint or situation.

not in accordance with

Emphasizes the lack of compliance or conformity to a set of rules or standards.

marching to a different beat

Emphasizes individuality and nonconformity in a more figurative way.

at variance with

Implies a contradiction or inconsistency with something else.

unconventional

Emphasizes the deviation from typical or traditional practices.

behind the times

Indicates a lack of awareness or understanding of current trends or developments.

nonconformist

Highlights a deliberate choice to deviate from societal norms.

unfashionable

Specifically refers to not being in line with current fashion trends.

FAQs

How is "out of step" used in a sentence?

"Out of step" can describe someone or something not aligned with current trends or opinions, as in, "His views on climate change are "out of step" with the scientific consensus."

What are some alternatives to using "out of step"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "marching to a different beat", "out of sync", or "at odds with" as alternatives to "out of step".

Is it better to say "out of step with" or "out of step from"?

While both prepositions can be used, "out of step with" is generally more common and grammatically preferred. "Out of step from" is less frequent and might sound awkward to some native speakers.

What does it mean to be "out of step with the times"?

To be "out of step with the times" means to not be in harmony with current trends, fashions, or prevailing opinions. It suggests being old-fashioned or not adapting to changes.