step in

Definition of step innext
1
2
as in to substitute
to serve as a replacement usually for a time only couldn't find anyone to step in for me so that I could take a break from my caregiving duties

Synonyms & Similar Words

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of step in Some states that declined the invite had other organizations step in on their behalf. Kelsey Ables, The Atlantic, 27 June 2026 The video then shows the woman throwing Martinez to the ground, grabbing her by the hair and repeatedly attacking her as bystanders try to step in and help. Ruben Vives, Los Angeles Times, 26 June 2026 Steele, who suffered a setback in his return from April 2025 elbow surgery when he was diagnosed with a flexor strain in late April, only started throwing a baseball last week, the first step in a long buildup. Meghan Montemurro, Chicago Tribune, 26 June 2026 Complete bulls--- and a joke of a league for not stepping in and doing something. Ryan Canfield Outkick, FOXNews.com, 26 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for step in
Recent Examples of Synonyms for step in
Verb
  • You are invited to visit and decide for yourself what belongs on these shelves.
    Maya Georgi, Rolling Stone, 26 June 2026
  • But, my colleague Karissa Waddick writes, those panels were displayed in the White House's West Wing for more than 40 years, away from areas where the public is allowed to visit.
    Phaedra Trethan, USA Today, 26 June 2026
Verb
  • Pulisic has not played since being substituted at halftime in the win over Paraguay after feeling discomfort in his left calf.
    Andrew Greif, NBC news, 26 June 2026
  • This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice.
    Lyssanoel Frater, USA Today, 25 June 2026
Verb
  • Similar to his successful run in WWE, Ethan has taken to Raw like a Canadian duck to water.
    Alfred Konuwa, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026
  • Rothermel is one of many people on the creative team who have worked on the show since its original Broadway run in 2001.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 30 June 2026
Verb
  • Neon blue airbrushing radiated off a sunshine-yellow base, while hot pink auras stood in stark contrast to white French tips.
    Ariel Wodarcyk, InStyle, 23 June 2026
  • The actor looked lovingly at his wife as the two stood in front of a white church with a red door.
    Hannah Sacks, PEOPLE, 23 June 2026
Verb
  • Artists, tour guides and retirees wield flamingo cutouts, children’s art and bullhorns to protest against corruption, opaque land deals and environmental damage, increasingly calling for Prime Minister Edi Rama to step down.
    Zana Cimili, Los Angeles Times, 29 June 2026
  • Anyone who sees Jett or has information about his whereabouts should call 911.
    CBS News Atlanta Digital Team, CBS News, 29 June 2026
Verb
  • While succession planning and training can be scheduled throughout the year, leaders should continuously be thinking about what roles may need to be filled in the next six to 12 months.
    Alyshia Hull, USA Today, 25 June 2026
  • Iqnatural Jamaican Black Castor Oil, my go-to for filling in my thinning edges, is on sale for $10 during Amazon Prime Day.
    Jailynn Taylor, InStyle, 25 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Step in.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/step%20in. Accessed 30 Jun. 2026.

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