step; staircase; level; chance to save face
Meanings
3 senses · 10 examplesnoun
step; flight of steps; staircase
Refers to the physical structure. Often used with measure word '级'.
He was waiting for me sitting on the steps by the door.
There are very high stone steps in front of this temple.
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She carefully walked down the slippery steps.
The wooden steps of the old house creaked.
noun
level; stage; new height
Metaphorical usage, indicating a new level of achievement or development.
The company's technical level has reached a new height.
This cooperation has brought bilateral relations to a new level.
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Our production efficiency needs to leap to a new level.
noun
way out; chance to save face; opportunity to back down gracefully
informalFigurative, often used in the set phrase '给个台阶下' (give someone a way out/to save face).
He's really angry right now, you'd better give him a way to back down.
This argument is too awkward; we need to find a way to save face.
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After my friend and I argued, I took the initiative to call him, which served as a way out for him.