Meaning
To make a significant move or decision that affects future developments.
Cultural Background
In Brazil, this phrase is often used in motivational contexts, such as on social media when someone achieves a goal. In Portugal, it is used more conservatively, often in professional or academic settings to denote stability. In the business world, it is a standard way to announce strategic shifts without sounding overly dramatic. It is a staple in the 'coaching' and personal development industry in Portuguese-speaking countries.
Use with 'ao'
Combine with 'ao' + infinitive to explain the context: 'Ao aceitar o emprego, dei um passo importante.'
Context matters
In professional settings, use it to show you are a strategic thinker.
Meaning
To make a significant move or decision that affects future developments.
Use with 'ao'
Combine with 'ao' + infinitive to explain the context: 'Ao aceitar o emprego, dei um passo importante.'
Context matters
In professional settings, use it to show you are a strategic thinker.
Don't overdo it
If you use it for everything, it loses its meaning. Save it for the big stuff.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct verb.
Eu ______ um passo importante ao me mudar.
The correct verb for 'passo' is 'dar'.
Which sentence is more natural?
Choose the best option.
We use 'dar' (dei) with 'passo'.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Você vai casar? B: Sim, é um ______.
The phrase 'passo importante' fits the context of marriage.
Match the situation to the phrase.
You just started a new career. What do you say?
Starting a career is a significant life step.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesEu ______ um passo importante ao me mudar.
The correct verb for 'passo' is 'dar'.
Choose the best option.
We use 'dar' (dei) with 'passo'.
A: Você vai casar? B: Sim, é um ______.
The phrase 'passo importante' fits the context of marriage.
You just started a new career. What do you say?
Starting a career is a significant life step.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
12 questionsYes, it is very common in professional emails to describe progress on a project.
Almost always. It implies progress, so it wouldn't make sense to use it for a negative event.
You can say 'dar passos importantes', but it is less common than the singular.
It is neutral. It fits in both formal and informal settings.
No, that would sound very strange. It is for life-changing events.
Similar, but 'à frente' focuses on the direction, while 'importante' focuses on the value.
In Brazil, it ends with a 'chee' sound. In Portugal, it ends with a 'te' sound.
Absolutely. It is a great way to show you are ambitious.
Yes, it is standard in both countries.
Use 'dar um passo decisivo' instead.
Yes, 'foi um passo importante' is a very common way to reflect on the past.
Yes, the word 'importante' implies that it is significant.
Related Phrases
Dar um passo à frente
similarTo move forward
Dar um passo decisivo
specialized formTo take a decisive step
Caminhar para o futuro
similarTo walk towards the future
Virar a página
similarTo turn the page
