1.
first step; initial step; beginning
The first action or stage in a process; the starting point of an endeavor.
これが成功への第一歩だ。
This is the first step toward success.
第一歩を踏み出す。
To take the first step.
ここに来ることが夢への第一歩だった。
Coming here was the first step toward my dream.
Often used figuratively to mean the beginning of an important undertaking. Emphasizes that the first action, however small, is significant.
ETYMOLOGY:
Compound of 第一 (first, number one) + 歩 (step).
COMMON PATTERNS:
- 第一歩を踏み出す: to take the first step
- 〜への第一歩: the first step toward ~
- 第一歩を記す: to mark/record the first step (literary)
USAGE:
Most commonly used in motivational or aspirational contexts — career goals, personal growth, recovery, etc. Carries a positive, forward-looking nuance.
SIMILAR EXPRESSIONS:
- 最初の一歩: the first step (more casual)
- 出発点: starting point (more neutral)
- 手始め: a beginning, start (first action in a series)