# step forward

CEFR B1 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/step-forward
Updated: 2026-10-23

## Definition

to offer your help or give information when it is needed.

For teachers: to volunteer for a task or to provide information, especially in a public or official context. The verb is intransitive in this sense, though it can also function literally as a movement verb.

## Examples

- Several witnesses stepped forward to help the police.
- When the charity asked for volunteers to lead the project, only one person stepped forward.
- Despite the potential for public backlash, several whistleblowers stepped forward to expose the systemic corruption within the agency.

## Usage notes

- often used with 'to' followed by an infinitive or 'as' followed by a role.
- Teaching tip: contrast the literal physical movement with the figurative act of volunteering; it implies a transition from being a passive observer to an active participant.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.