step in front

USAGE SUMMARY

"step in front" is an appropriate phrase to use in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that someone should move in front of someone or something else, or to take precedence. For example, "She asked her daughter to step in front so she could take a picture."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The soldiers step in front of Man.

The New York Times

WHEELCHAIR ACCESS: Restrooms are small and narrow; step in front.

The New York Times - Food

Will nobody step in front of this misbegotten bandwagon?

The New York Times

WHEELCHAIR ACCESS: One step in front, restroom is narrow.

The New York Times - Food

Milling of industrial beets is the primary step in front end processing for ethanol production.

Industrial Crops and Products

Outside, she sat on the little step in front of the entrance to her apartment.

The New Yorker

Step in front of the projector — as my daughter had done now — and the image vanishes.

The New Yorker

At worst he might only block my way or step in front of a truck.

The New York Times

He has not dared step in front of a camera since the week of the election.

The New York Times

"I always had someone half a step in front of me," she said.

The New York Times - Magazine

"I would step in front of them and have them follow me.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "step in front" to describe physical movement, ensure the context clarifies the purpose – is it to protect, obstruct, or simply lead the way? For example, "He had to "step in front" of the child to keep them from running into the street."

Common error

Avoid using "step in front" in abstract or metaphorical situations where a different phrase might be more appropriate. For example, instead of saying "The company needs to "step in front" of the competition", consider "The company needs to surpass the competition" or "The company needs to take the lead".

Linguistic Context

The phrase ""step in front"" primarily functions as a verb phrase indicating a physical action of moving to a position ahead of someone or something, or a metaphorical action of taking initiative or obstructing. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase ""step in front"" is a versatile verb phrase commonly used to describe a physical movement or a metaphorical action of taking initiative. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While the phrase is generally neutral in register, it's essential to consider the specific context to ensure its appropriateness. When considering related phrases, options such as "move ahead of" or "take the lead" may provide more precise alternatives depending on the intended meaning. Be mindful of potential misuses, especially in abstract contexts where more specific language may be needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

get in front of

Similar to the original phrase, but with a slight emphasis on the action of positioning oneself before something or someone.

move ahead of

This alternative implies a forward movement, taking a leading position. It focuses on progression and leadership.

stand before

Emphasizes the act of standing or being present in front of something, often implying a sense of defense or confrontation.

place oneself before

This is a more formal and deliberate way of saying "step in front", suggesting a conscious decision to be in a protective or prominent position.

take the lead

This alternative conveys the idea of assuming a leadership role by moving to the forefront.

position oneself ahead

This implies a tactical movement, carefully placing oneself in a forward or advantageous position.

go before

A more archaic or formal way to say "step in front", suggesting precedence or authority.

interpose oneself

A formal way of saying to step in front as an intervention, as a protection, or to block a path.

block the path of

Focuses on the obstructive aspect of stepping in front, implying the prevention of movement or progress.

advance before

Indicates moving forward in precedence, often implying a formal or ceremonial context.

FAQs

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

You can use ""step in front"" to describe physically moving ahead of someone or something, or metaphorically to describe taking a leading role or obstructing something. For instance, "She "stepped in front" of the car to stop it" or "He "stepped in front" of the project to take the lead".

What are some alternatives to "step in front"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "move ahead of", "get in front of", or "take the lead".

When is it appropriate to use ""step in front"" metaphorically?

It's appropriate to use ""step in front"" metaphorically when you want to convey the idea of taking initiative, assuming a leadership role, or interposing oneself in a situation. Ensure the context makes the metaphorical meaning clear.

Is ""step in front"" a formal or informal phrase?

"Step in front" is generally considered a neutral phrase suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal writing, you might prefer alternatives like "interpose oneself" or "position oneself ahead".