步入

• Pinyin: bù rù
• Hanzi breakdown: 步 = to walk, step; 入 = a pictograph of an arrow entering, meaning to enter

Meaning

To step into; to enter. Often used for significant transitions or entering important stages.

More literary than 走进 or 进入. Often used for metaphorical transitions like entering adulthood, a new era, or a new phase. Also used literally for ceremonial entrances (stepping into a venue).

Examples

1. 这款新产品的发布，标志着公司步入了发展的新阶段。 The launch of this new product marks the company's entry into a new stage of development.
2. 她步入婚姻殿堂的那一刻，所有人都为她祝福。 The moment she stepped into the wedding hall, everyone blessed her.
3. 中国经济正步入高质量发展的轨道。 China's economy is stepping onto the track of high-quality development.

Usage Guide

Context: transitions, milestones, ceremonial

Tone: elevated

Do Say

• 步入社会后才知道赚钱不易。(Only after entering society did I realize earning money isn't easy.)
• 他步入了人生的新阶段。(He has entered a new stage of life.)

Don't Say

• 我步入了厕所。(For mundane locations, use 走进 or 进 — 步入 is for significant entrances)

Origin & History

步 (to walk, step) + 入 (to enter). A compound emphasizing the deliberate, step-by-step nature of entering.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Educated