steep step

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "steep step" is correct and can be used in written English.
It can be used to describe a step or staircase that has a significant incline or angle, often implying difficulty in climbing or descending. Example: "The old stone staircase had a steep step that made it challenging for the elderly to navigate."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

He does, though, acknowledge the steep step up from county cricket.

The Guardian - Sport

Alas, the aisle seat on their row had a steep step down to reach the floor.

The New York Times

Tour buses will drop you at the Jaffa Gate, so that you must ascend to Jerusalem's Old City, accruing reverence with each steep step.

The New York Times - Magazine

The ability to climb a steep step or rise from a low chair after total knee replacement may be enhanced if the required force in the quadriceps muscle is reduced.

Journal of Biomechanics

Half way up the mountain, the team couldn't find anywhere to put their tents so they had to dig a nine-inch platform into the snow and wait out the night "sitting bolt upright on that steep step, terrified of falling down".

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

There are lots of steep steps.

The New York Times - Travel

ACCESS -- Seven steep steps at entrance.

The New York Times

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBILITY -- 15 steep steps; restrooms at dining-room level.

The New York Times

Steep steps and narrow paths make for exciting, technical running.

The Guardian - Travel

Steep steps make it best with older kids.

The Guardian - Travel

We climbed the steep steps to the left of the fall.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical spaces, use "steep step" to clearly convey the difficulty or potential hazard of navigating the step. For example, warn visitors about "the steep step" at the entrance.

Common error

Avoid using "steep step" metaphorically when describing general challenges. Instead, reserve it for literal, physically steep steps. Alternatives like "significant challenge" or "difficult phase" are better suited for abstract difficulties.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "steep step" functions primarily as a descriptive noun phrase. It combines the adjective "steep", which modifies the noun "step", indicating a significant incline or abruptness. Ludwig confirms this phrase is acceptable for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "steep step" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a step with a significant incline, as confirmed by Ludwig. While relatively rare, it is found across various contexts including news and media and scientific publications. The phrase serves a descriptive function and maintains a neutral register. Ludwig's analysis of example sentences highlights its primary usage in conveying information about physical characteristics, especially in the context of accessibility or warnings about potential hazards.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sharp incline

Focuses on the angle rather than a specific step, implying a general upward slope.

abrupt rise

Highlights the suddenness of the change in elevation or difficulty.

precipitous climb

Highlights the danger and effort required for ascending.

sheer ascent

Focuses on the steepness and uninterrupted nature of the upward movement.

significant hurdle

Frames the step as an obstacle that needs to be overcome.

formidable obstacle

Emphasizes the intimidating nature of the challenge.

difficult stage

Shifts the focus to a challenging part of a process or experience rather than a physical step.

challenging phase

Emphasizes the difficulty of a particular period or stage.

sharp increase

Indicates a rapid and significant growth or intensification.

sudden escalation

Highlights the unexpected and swift nature of the change.

FAQs

How can I describe a less extreme version of a steep step?

You could use phrases like "gentle slope" or "gradual incline" to describe something less severe. Alternatively, for a single step, "low step" might be appropriate.

What is a situation where it's crucial to highlight the presence of a "steep step"?

It's especially important to mention a "steep step" when providing accessibility information, particularly for individuals with mobility issues. This helps them anticipate potential challenges.

Is it appropriate to use "steep step" in formal writing?

Yes, "steep step" is appropriate for formal writing when accurately describing a physical feature. However, ensure the context aligns with the literal meaning and isn't metaphorical.

What are some synonyms for describing the difficulty posed by a "steep step"?

Consider using "challenging", "arduous", or "difficult" to describe the effort required to navigate a "steep step". For example, "The "climbing the steep step" was arduous".