take steps



take steps (to prevent something)

Fig. to do what is necessary to prevent something. I took steps to prevent John from learning what we were talking about. I have to keep John from knowing what I've been doing. I can prevent it if I take steps.
See also: step, take

take steps

Begin a course of action, as in The town is taking steps to provide better street lights, or They took steps to keep their plans secret. [Early 1600s]
See also: step, take

Common Names:

NameGenderPronouncedUsage
Lilianalee-LYAH-nah (Italian, Polish), lil-ee-AN-ə (English)Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Romanian, Polish, English
JustyJUS-teeEnglish
Fausta-Italian, Ancient Roman
Vibius-Ancient Roman
Clelia-Italian
Abdur-Rashid-Arabic