step into the role

USAGE SUMMARY

"step into the role" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It means to take on a particular position or responsibility. You can use this phrase when discussing a person's change in job, title, or status. For example: - After years of hard work and dedication, Sarah finally had the opportunity to step into the role of CEO. - The new employee will have to quickly step into the role of managing the team in order to meet the project deadline. - As a seasoned actor, Tom was able to easily step into the role of the lead character and bring the script to life on stage. - With the retirement of the current president, it is time for someone new to step into the role and lead the company into the future.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

After he finishes portraying the mischievous villain Jack Frost in the film "The Santa Clause 3," he plans to step into the role of himself (sort of) in a new musical, "Martin Short: Fame Becomes Me".

The New York Times

Not just any animal can step into the role, however.

The New York Times

Makeup or not, he may be the least androgynous singer to step into the role.

The New York Times - Arts

In the interactive exhibit "Forced from Home," visitors step into the role of refugees.

The New Yorker

Still, Hastings seems unlikely to step into the role of No. 1 receiver.

The New York Times - Sports

But the last thing they should do is step into the role of banker.

The Washington Post

In the meantime, Mr. Meyers will step into the role of defending his family's interests.

The New York Times

"Finally, we've found a Frenchman willing to step into the role".

The New York Times

If he does, it will pave the way for Mr. Gorman to step into the role.

The New York Times

James E. Rogers, then the C.E.O. of Duke, would step into the role of executive chairman.

The New York Times

In America, only an imam is thought to have the connections, wisdom and respect to step into the role.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "step into the role" to clearly indicate a transition or assumption of responsibilities. It's particularly effective when describing a change in someone's job, title, or status.

Common error

Avoid using "step into the role" when simply participating or contributing to an activity without assuming full responsibility. The phrase implies a formal or significant change in position or duties.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "step into the role" functions as a verb phrase indicating the act of assuming responsibilities or a position. It highlights a transition or change in status, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "step into the role" is a commonly used idiomatic phrase that signifies assuming a new position, responsibility, or duty. It is grammatically correct and widely accepted across various contexts, as confirmed by Ludwig. The phrase is most frequently found in news and media, academic, and formal business settings. Alternative phrases such as "assume the position" or "take on the mantle" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. When using the phrase, ensure that it accurately reflects a significant change in position or responsibilities, avoiding its use in scenarios where someone is merely participating without assuming full accountability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

assume the position

Focuses on the act of taking control or responsibility of a defined position.

take on the mantle

Emphasizes inheriting responsibilities or leadership, often with a sense of legacy.

embrace the responsibilities

Highlights accepting and actively engaging with the duties associated with a role.

take over the position

Implies replacing someone in a specific job or duty.

fill the shoes

Suggests meeting the expectations and performing at the same level as the person previously in the role.

take charge

Focuses on the aspect of leading and directing, assuming control.

become the incumbent

Describes officially holding a particular office or position.

succeed to the office

Highlights the aspect of inheriting or following someone in a formal position.

be promoted to

Focuses on the advancement in rank or position within an organization.

move into the position

Indicates a shift from one role or status to another, emphasizing the change.

FAQs

What does "step into the role" mean?

The phrase "step into the role" means to assume a new position or responsibility, often implying a formal change in status or duties.

How can I use "step into the role" in a sentence?

You can use "step into the role" to describe someone taking on a new job, responsibility, or duty. For example, "After the manager retired, Sarah was ready to "step into the role" of team leader".

What are some alternatives to "step into the role"?

Alternatives to "step into the role" include "assume the position", "take on the mantle", or "take over the position", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "step into the role" in formal writing?

Yes, "step into the role" is appropriate for formal writing, especially in business or academic contexts, as it clearly and professionally conveys the idea of assuming a new position or responsibility.