Phrase guide

out of step

prep_phrase · 2 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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No pronunciation record was provided for this word.

1

prep_phrase

Meaning 1

Not matching the movement of one's feet with that of others, or with an accompanying beat, while marching or walking.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Examples

  • At the march-past, little Johnny was out of step with everyone else.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

prep_phrase

Meaning 2

Not matching or in agreement (with someone or something).

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: figuratively

Examples

  • The government is increasingly out of step with public opinion.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: out of tune

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.

Across languages

Translations

11 source translations are retained for this English entry.

  • Finnish: epätahdissa — not matching the movement of one’s feet with that of others, or with an accompanying beat, while marching or walking
  • French: en décalage — not matching the movement of one’s feet with that of others, or with an accompanying beat, while marching or walking
  • Polish: nie w takt — not matching the movement of one’s feet with that of others, or with an accompanying beat, while marching or walking
  • Spanish: desfasado — not matching the movement of one’s feet with that of others, or with an accompanying beat, while marching or walking
  • Swedish: i otakt — not matching the movement of one’s feet with that of others, or with an accompanying beat, while marching or walking
  • Finnish: eronnut — not matching or in agreement
  • Finnish: omaperäinen — not matching or in agreement
  • French: en décalage — not matching or in agreement
  • Polish: inaczej niż inni — not matching or in agreement
  • Swedish: i otakt — not matching or in agreement
  • Swedish: ur fas — not matching or in agreement