take steps
take steps to (do something)
To do what is necessary to prepare for or begin doing something. We're currently taking steps to secure funding for the project before we announce it to the public. Following public outcry, the company has taken steps to rectify the discriminatory hiring practices.
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2015 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
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.
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.
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]
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.
take steps
adopt a particular course of action in order to bring about a particular result.Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017