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步伐 — meaning in English: pace

bùfá · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for pace
补助
bǔzhù
步伐
bùfá
卧室
wòshì
决定
juédìng
礼物
lǐwù
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neutral common
Usage
Native speakers often use the word 步伐 (bùfá) in discussions about walking, running, or any form of movement, especially in contexts like sports or dance. For instance, during a marathon, someone might comment on the importance of maintaining a steady 步伐 to conserve energy.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is 速度 (sùdù), meaning 'speed,' but 步伐 focuses more on the rhythm and steadiness of movement rather than how fast one is going. You'd choose 步伐 when discussing pace in terms of lifestyle or exercise, while 速度 might be more suitable for racing contexts.
Culture
The term 步伐 is composed of two characters: 步 (bù), meaning 'step' and 伐 (fá), which originally refers to 'chop' or 'cut.' Interestingly, the word conjures images of rhythm and coordination, reflecting the Chinese cultural emphasis on harmony and balance, not just in movement but in life.
FAQ
Q.What does 步伐 mean in English?
步伐 (bùfá) translates to 'pace' in English, referring to the rhythm or speed at which someone walks or moves. It's often used to describe the way someone approaches tasks or activities.
Q.How do you use 步伐 in a sentence?
You can say: '他调整了自己的步伐以适应新的节奏,' which means 'He adjusted his pace to match the new rhythm.' This illustrates how the word is used in both literal and metaphorical contexts.
Q.What are common mistakes when using 步伐?
A frequent mistake is to confuse 步伐 with 速度 (sùdù). While they are related, remember that 步伐 emphasizes the steadiness and rhythm of movement rather than just how fast someone is traveling.
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