step on it

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "step on it" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is an idiomatic expression that means to go faster or hurry up. It is often used as an imperative or command. Example: The bus is about to leave, we need to get to the station. Come on, step on it!.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"Step on it!

The New York Times - Sports

"Just step on it".

The New York Times

"You don't step on it.

The New York Times - Sports

Step on it!" she screamed.

The New York Times - Sports

Step on it, Dad.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Then step on it.

The New York Times

There's an acorn; you step on it.

The New Yorker

"Don't step on it if you're heavy.

The Guardian

They might throw it around and step on it".

The New York Times

Sometimes livestock step on it and break it, too.

The New York Times

Or perhaps I'll be emotional and step on it.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "step on it" in writing, ensure the context implies a need for speed or urgency, making it clear whether it's referring to physical movement or task completion.

Common error

Avoid using "step on it" in formal or academic writing where a more professional tone is required. Opt for phrases like "expedite the process" or "accelerate efforts" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "step on it" functions primarily as an imperative, urging quick action or increased speed. Ludwig provides numerous examples where it's used to instruct someone to hasten, especially in situations requiring urgency.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "step on it" is a very common, grammatically correct idiomatic expression that means to hurry up or go faster. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability in written English. It's primarily used in informal contexts, though it can appear in news and media. While it's a versatile phrase for everyday communication, it should be avoided in formal or professional writing. Alternatives such as "hurry up" or "move faster" may be more suitable in certain settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hurry up

Simple command to accelerate.

move faster

Directly indicates an increase in speed.

speed up

Implies an increase in velocity.

get a move on

Suggests initiating or quickening progress.

make haste

Formal way of saying to hurry.

buckle down

Focus efforts intensely, often to meet a deadline.

get cracking

Informal suggestion to begin something energetically.

bear down

Apply maximum effort.

pull your socks up

Improve one's effort or performance.

chop-chop

Informal, often playful, command to hurry.

FAQs

How can I use "step on it" in a sentence?

You can use "step on it" as an imperative to tell someone to hurry or go faster. For example, "The movie starts in five minutes, we need to "step on it"!"

What does "step on it" mean?

The phrase ""step on it"" is an idiom that means to accelerate, either literally in a vehicle or figuratively in an activity.

What are some alternatives to "step on it"?

You can use alternatives like "hurry up", "move faster", or "speed up" depending on the context.

Is "step on it" appropriate for formal writing?

No, ""step on it"" is an informal idiom and is not suitable for formal or professional writing. Use more formal phrases like "expedite" or "accelerate" instead.