Example: No des un paso en falso durante la presentación importante.
Definition
"Dar un paso en falso" means to make a mistake or misstep, especially in a situation where careful action is required. It implies taking a wrong step that leads to negative consequences or problems, as illustrated in the phrase 'Do not dar un paso en falso during the important presentation.'
Translations
to make a misstep
een misstap begaan
fer un pas en fals
faire un faux pas
einen Fehltritt machen
Etymology
The phrase "dar un paso en falso" literally translates to 'to give a false step.' It originates from the idea of physically stepping incorrectly or slipping, which metaphorically extends to making a mistake in decisions or actions. Did you know it vividly conveys the image of stumbling, symbolizing an error?
Learn to use this expression actively
"Dar un paso en falso" appears in the Vocaplus list "Spanish - General - Modismos y refranes - (C2) - parte 1", containing 105 commonly used expressions.
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to make a misstep