step out: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
MediumInformal to Neutral
Quick answer
What does “step out” mean?
To leave a place, especially briefly or for a specific purpose.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To leave a place, especially briefly or for a specific purpose; to move or walk with energy and purpose.
Also means to act or behave in a bold, confident, or socially unconventional way, often with style. In baseball, a batter can 'step out' of the batter's box. In some contexts, it can be a euphemism for dying.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In baseball (primarily US), 'step out' is a specific technical term. Both varieties use the social/leave meanings, though the 'bold/confident' connotation is common in both.
Connotations
Slightly more formal or old-fashioned in the 'leave briefly' sense in UK English. The 'dress up and go out' sense is strong in both.
Frequency
Common in both varieties, but the specific 'leave temporarily' sense might be slightly more frequent in US English.
Grammar
How to Use “step out” in a Sentence
SUBJ + step out + (ADV) + (for + NOUN)SUBJ + step out + on + (PLACE/PERSON)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “step out” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- I'll just step out for a quick fag.
- They really stepped out for the gala, wearing their finest.
American English
- Hang on, I need to step out and take this call.
- She stepped out on the town in a stunning new dress.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
'She's stepped out of the meeting; she'll be back in five.' (brief departure)
Academic
The data suggests corporations must step out of their traditional roles. (metaphorical departure)
Everyday
'I'm stepping out to walk the dog.' 'They stepped out for their anniversary dinner.'
Technical
The batter was warned for stepping out of the box. (baseball)
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “step out”
- Incorrect: 'He stepped out the house.' (Correct: 'He stepped out of the house.')
- Incorrect: 'I stepped out for buying milk.' (Correct: 'I stepped out to buy milk.')
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
'Step out' often implies a quicker, more temporary, or more specific departure than the general 'go out'. 'Step out for coffee' suggests a short trip; 'go out for coffee' is more general. 'Step out' also carries a nuance of style or confidence in some contexts.
It is neutral to informal. In very formal writing (e.g., a legal document), 'leave', 'depart', or 'exit' would be preferred. It is perfectly acceptable in business emails and everyday conversation.
Yes, but this is a dated, gentle euphemism, often heard in phrases like 'He stepped out quietly last night.' It is not common in modern everyday speech.
This is an informal idiom meaning to be unfaithful to a romantic partner, to cheat on them. Example: 'She found out he'd been stepping out on her.'
To leave a place, especially briefly or for a specific purpose.
Step out: in British English it is pronounced /ˌstep ˈaʊt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌstep ˈaʊt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “step out on someone (to be unfaithful)”
- “step out of line (to behave improperly)”
- “step out in style”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of literally taking a STEP OUTside a door. It's a simple, physical image for leaving. For the confident meaning, picture someone stepping OUT onto a stage.
Conceptual Metaphor
LIFE IS A JOURNEY / SOCIAL LIFE IS A DANCE: 'Stepping out' frames a social action as a deliberate move in physical space.
Practice
Quiz
In which context does 'step out' NOT mean to leave briefly?