1 B1 neutral
To physically move so that you are positioned between two people, often to prevent violence or conflict.
"The teacher stepped between the two boys before the argument became a fight."
inseparable
step between
B2 neutral inseparable intransitive
To place oneself physically or figuratively between two people or groups, especially to prevent conflict.
In plain English
Put yourself in the middle of two people or groups, often to stop a fight or argument.
What does "step between" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic neutral
To figuratively intervene between two opposing forces, people, or interests.
"The union representative stepped between management and the workers to prevent a breakdown in talks."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To take a step so that you are positioned between two things or people.
Actually means
Put yourself in the middle of two people or groups, often to stop a fight or argument.
Usage tip
Commonly used when describing someone intervening in a fight, argument, or dangerous situation. Less common than 'step in' but more specific about the positioning involved.
Words that pair with "step between"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
fighters rivals warring arguing parties combatants
How to conjugate "step between"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
step between
I/you/we/they
3rd person
steps between
he/she/it
Past simple
steped between
yesterday
Past participle
steped between
have + pp
-ing form
steping between
continuous
Hear "step between" in the wild
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