noun, adverb
one step; a step
Literal single step of movement; often used with verbs like 踏み出す, 進む, 下がる.
彼は一歩前に出た。
He took one step forward.
一歩も動けなかった。
I couldn't move even a single step.
noun, adverb
Figurative step in a process, progress, or development; common in phrases like 第一歩 (first step) or 一歩前進 (one step forward).
これは成功への第一歩だ。
This is the first step toward success.
交渉は一歩も進んでいない。
The negotiations haven't progressed even one step.
noun, adverb
Used adverbially to indicate a small degree or amount; often in comparisons or expressions of slight difference.
彼の方が一歩上手だ。
He is a little better.
この案の方が一歩リードしている。
This plan is slightly ahead.
Compound of 一 (one) and 歩 (step, walk). The reading いっぽ is a regular sound change from いちほ.