to take a step

JLPT N5 6 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Meaning and Usage

The character (mài) primarily means "to take a step" or "to stride." It often describes physical movement, especially walking with large or confident steps. Beyond literal walking, it is frequently used metaphorically to indicate progress or advancement, such as taking steps toward a goal or development.

Common Collocations

  • (màibù): to step forward, to start moving
  • 第一 (màichū dì yī bù): to take the first step (often figurative, like starting a new phase)
  • 未来 (màixiàng wèilái): to stride toward the future

Usage Notes

When using , the focus is often on the decisiveness or significance of the step, not just any step. It conveys a sense of determination or progress. It is more formal or literary than simply (zǒu, to walk).

Be careful not to confuse with similar verbs like (tà), which emphasizes stepping on or treading, or (tiào), which means to jump.

Register and Tone

is suitable in both spoken and written Chinese but tends to appear more in formal contexts, news reports, speeches, or literary descriptions rather than casual daily conversation.

Example Sentences

He strode into the classroom.

The company took the first step towards international development.

We should overcome difficulties and keep moving forward.