escalón
“escalón” means “step” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
step
Also: stair, rung
📝 In Action
Ten cuidado, el último escalón está roto.
A1Be careful, the last step is broken.
Subí los escalones de dos en dos para llegar rápido.
A2I went up the steps two at a time to get there quickly.
Se sentó en el primer escalón de la entrada.
A2He sat down on the first step of the entrance.
stage
Also: level, stepping stone
📝 In Action
Este ascenso es un gran escalón en mi carrera.
B1This promotion is a big step in my career.
Estamos en el último escalón de la negociación.
B2We are at the final stage of the negotiation.
Aún le falta un escalón para llegar a la cima del éxito.
B2He is still one level away from reaching the top of success.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: escalón
Question 1 of 3
If you are fixing a staircase and need to replace one physical piece where you step, what do you need?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
From 'escala' (ladder or staircase), which comes from the Latin word 'scala,' meaning a ladder or stairs for climbing.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'escalón' and 'peldaño'?
They are almost identical synonyms. 'Escalón' is much more common in everyday speech, while 'peldaño' can sound slightly more formal or technical.
Does 'escalón' mean the same thing as 'escalera'?
No. 'Escalera' is the whole set of stairs or a ladder. 'Escalón' is just one single step within that set.
Can I use 'escalón' to mean a 'step' in a recipe?
Usually, no. For steps in instructions or recipes, 'paso' is the correct word. Use 'escalón' for levels in a hierarchy or physical steps.