To accidentally get into trouble, do something embarrassing, or make a social blunder.
Accidentally do or say something that causes a problem or embarrassment — like stepping in dog poo without noticing.
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
To accidentally create an embarrassing or difficult situation for oneself, usually by saying or doing the wrong thing.
"He really stepped in it when he made that joke about the boss in front of the whole team."
Literally, to accidentally step into something unpleasant such as mud or animal waste.
"He looked down and realised he'd stepped in it right at the entrance to the party."
To place your foot into something unpleasant on the ground — traditionally animal excrement.
Accidentally do or say something that causes a problem or embarrassment — like stepping in dog poo without noticing.
The phrase comes from the idea of accidentally stepping in animal feces. It is informal and primarily North American. Used humorously or critically when someone gets into a messy or awkward situation through their own carelessness.
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
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