step on the ice

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "step on the ice" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts related to ice skating, hockey, or any situation where someone is about to begin an activity on ice. Example: "Before the competition starts, all skaters must step on the ice for their warm-up routine."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

Gordie Howe, widely considered one of the greatest hockey players to ever step on the ice, died Friday morning at the age of 88, CBS News has confirmed. .

Huffington Post

Step on the ice and just play the game.

The New York Times - Sports

Children strayed: "Ryan, stay here!" "Can't I step on the ice?

The New Yorker

It's great when you step on the ice to be Team GB, not just team Scotland".

The Guardian - Sport

"Now, every time I step on the ice, she is right there".

The New York Times - Sports

Everybody, when they step on the ice, they know what they're up against".

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

After the game, no one identified the player who erred by stepping on the ice.

The New York Times - Sports

Nelson held my elbow during my first few steps on the ice and taught me to move my weight onto one skate, glide and shift to the other.

The New York Times - Sports

After I stepped on the ice for the first shift, the nervousness seemed to go away".

The New York Times - Sports

But once he steps on the ice, his actions speak for themselves".

The New York Times - Sports

"Any time he steps on the ice, we have to be ready for him.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a hockey player's performance or anticipation, use "step on the ice" to convey the excitement and immediacy of entering the game.

Common error

While "step on the ice" is acceptable, avoid using it metaphorically in contexts unrelated to ice skating or hockey, as it may sound unnatural or confusing. Instead, use more general phrases like "begin" or "start" when referring to non-ice-related activities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "step on the ice" primarily functions as a verb phrase, often used to describe the act of entering an ice rink or beginning an activity on ice, such as skating or playing hockey. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "step on the ice" is a grammatically sound and usable expression that describes the act of entering an ice rink or beginning an activity, such as skating or playing hockey. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is most commonly found in the context of News & Media. While predominantly neutral in tone, it is suitable for a range of contexts, primarily related to sports and recreational activities. When writing, ensure that the context aligns with ice-related activities to maintain clarity and avoid confusion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

get onto the ice

Highlights the movement of placing oneself on the ice surface.

go on the ice

A simple and direct way of saying to move onto the ice.

take to the ice

Emphasizes the act of beginning to skate or play on the ice surface.

hit the ice

An informal way of saying to go onto the ice, often used in hockey contexts.

enter the rink

Focuses on the action of going into the enclosed area where ice skating or hockey takes place.

set foot on the ice

More formal and descriptive, emphasizing the physical action of placing one's foot on the ice.

begin skating

Focuses on initiating the activity of skating.

start to skate

Similar to "begin skating", but can imply a more gradual commencement.

approach the ice

Suggests moving towards the ice, possibly preparing to step onto it.

access the ice

Implies gaining entry or permission to be on the ice.

FAQs

How can I use "step on the ice" in a sentence?

You can use "step on the ice" to describe the action of entering an ice rink or beginning to skate. For example, "The skater felt nervous as she prepared to step on the ice".

What does "step on the ice" mean?

"Step on the ice" literally means to place your foot on a frozen surface, typically to ice skate or play a sport like hockey. It can also metaphorically mean to begin a challenging or new endeavor.

What can I say instead of "step on the ice"?

You can use alternatives like "get onto the ice", "take to the ice", or "enter the rink" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "stepped on the ice" or "step on the ice"?

Both "stepped on the ice" and "step on the ice" are grammatically correct, but they are used in different tenses. "Step on the ice" is present tense, while "stepped on the ice" is past tense. For example, "Every time I step on the ice, I feel excited" versus "Yesterday, I stepped on the ice for the first time".