Translation guide
How to express 'step on' in Japanese, covering physical stepping, figurative meanings, and common phrases.
To place one's foot on an object or surface, intentionally or accidentally.
The most common and general verb for 'step on'. Can be used for stepping on objects, surfaces, or people's feet.
彼は私の足を踏んだ。
He stepped on my foot.
Be careful not to step on the glass.
To step on forcefully or trample. Implies a deliberate or heavy step.
He angrily stomped on his hat.
Colloquial variant of 踏みつける, often used in casual speech.
Someone stepped on my shoe.
To press down with the foot, such as a car pedal or a sewing machine pedal.
Also used for pedals and switches operated by foot.
Please step on the accelerator.
I forgot to step on the brake.
To metaphorically 'step on' someone, meaning to treat them badly or exploit them.
To accidentally trigger a landmine or similar device by stepping on it.
Literally 'step on a landmine'. Also used figuratively for saying something that unexpectedly causes trouble.
He stepped on a landmine.
To accelerate a vehicle or to urge someone to hurry.
To 'step on' a bus or train, use 乗る (のる), not 踏む. 踏む is only for stepping with the foot onto something.
踏む is neutral; 踏みつける implies force or intention to crush/trample. Use 踏む for accidental steps or normal stepping.
He treats his subordinates like dirt.
Step on it! We'll be late.