Definition

1. Noun:
   • A single, defined movement of the feet in dancing: A "dance step" is a basic unit of movement in a dance, often a specific placement or motion of the foot or feet.
   • A sequence of foot movements forming a pattern: It can also refer to a short, learned sequence of foot movements that constitutes a recognizable part of a dance.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The first dance step you need to learn is the basic box step.
  • She practiced the complicated dance step until she could do it perfectly.
  • The choreography combines traditional dance steps with modern movements.

Advanced Usage

• "To know the steps": To be familiar with the specific sequences of a dance.
  • He doesn't know the steps to this salsa routine yet.
• "Step sequence": A longer series of connected dance steps.
  • The ice skaters performed a difficult step sequence in the middle of their program.

Variants and Related Words

• Step (n): A single movement of lifting and setting down the foot. In dance, it is often synonymous with "dance step."
• Footwork (n): The manner or technique of using the feet in dancing or sports.
• Choreography (n): The sequence of steps and movements in a dance.

Synonyms

• Footstep (in a general, non-dance context).
• Movement.
• Figure (as in a figure of a dance).

Related Phrases

• Learn the steps: To memorize and practice the specific foot movements of a dance.
  • It took her a week to learn the steps for the performance.
• Miss a step: To make an error in the sequence of foot movements.
  • The dancer missed a step but recovered gracefully.

Related Idioms

• In step (with someone/something): Moving in synchronization or in agreement.
  • The dancers were perfectly in step with the music. (This idiom uses the concept of a step but refers to harmony and timing.)
• Step by step: Gradually and methodically, one stage at a time.
  • She taught me the dance step by step. (This idiom describes a process of learning.)

Noun

1. a sequence of foot movements that make up a particular dance
   • he taught them the waltz step