Translation guide
The English phrase "first step" can refer to a literal initial physical step or, more commonly, the first action in a process or the beginning of an endeavor. Japanese has several natural expressions depending on the nuance.
To express the first action taken to start something, often with a sense of initiative or beginning a journey.
Literally 'first step'. Used for the first step in a process, project, or personal journey. Very common and natural.
This is the first step toward success.
We took the first step in our new venture.
Literally 'the first one step'. Emphasizes the very beginning of an action or journey. Slightly more literal than 第一歩.
A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.
Similar to 最初の一歩, meaning 'the first step'. Often used in motivational contexts.
To change something, the first step is important.
Means 'first move' or 'opening move', often used in games like shogi or go, but can be used metaphorically for an initial action. Somewhat formal or technical.
We made a mistake in the first step of the negotiation.
To refer to the actual first step taken with one's foot, e.g., a baby's first step or the first step onto a surface.
To describe the initial stage in a sequence of actions, like a recipe or instructions.
第一歩 (だいいっぽ) is more common for metaphorical first steps (e.g., toward a goal), while 最初の一歩 (さいしょのいっぽ) can be used for both literal and metaphorical steps. 第一歩 sounds slightly more formal or momentous.
The verb 踏み出す means 'to step forward' and is often paired with 第一歩 or 一歩 to emphasize taking initiative. Example: 新しい人生に第一歩を踏み出す (take the first step into a new life).
Taking the first step is always the hardest.
This agreement is a first step toward peace.
the first step on the moon
The first step of the plan has been completed.