ENGLISH
REFERENCE

step up to the plate

idiom
Meaning

To initiate action; to assume or take a responsibility.


Origin

disputed origin

An allusion to taking one's turn at bat in baseball.

Examples
SIMPLE

It is time for you to step up to the plate.

CONTEXTUAL

When the team leader resigned, Sarah decided to step up to the plate and manage the project herself.

COMPLEX

Faced with the sudden collapse of the department, the junior manager finally stepped up to the plate to lead the recovery efforts.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    baby step

    A small effort made towards the completion of a much larger task.

  2. 02

    one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind

    (used imitatively) A cliché used to exaggerate an accomplishment or milestone.

  3. 03

    one step ahead

    maintaining a slight advantage; continuing to lead

  4. 04

    one step forward, two steps back

    A situation in which progress is more than offset by adverse developments.

  5. 05

    pep in one's step

    A confident, happy, energetic or enthusiastic mood or manner.

  6. 06

    spring in one's step

    Enthusiasm, energy or a positive outlook or cheerful attitude.

  7. 07

    step back

    To stop what one is doing and evaluate the current situation.

  8. 08

    step down

    To resign or retire from an office or position of authority.

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