step on a rake
To fall victim to an avoidable (usually self-caused) hazard or error.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“He keeps stepping on a rake by trusting that dishonest man.”
“If you ignore the warning signs again, you are just stepping on a rake.”
“Despite his extensive experience, he stepped on a rake by repeating the same strategic blunder that had ruined his previous project.”
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baby step
A small effort made towards the completion of a much larger task.
- 02
one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind
(used imitatively) A cliché used to exaggerate an accomplishment or milestone.
- 03
one step ahead
maintaining a slight advantage; continuing to lead
- 04
one step forward, two steps back
A situation in which progress is more than offset by adverse developments.
- 05
pep in one's step
A confident, happy, energetic or enthusiastic mood or manner.
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rake over
To discuss something unpleasant from the past.
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rake over the coals
To call to task or to reprimand severely.
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rake together
To collect, assemble or gather small amounts (especially of money), from various sources, with some difficulty
Last updated August 10, 2026