Tread on Meaning in English

expression

US

ˈtɹɛd/ /ˈɑn/, /ˈɔn

TRED-awn

UK

tɹˈɛd/ /ˈɒn

tred-ON

Definition

To step on something, usually by accident. It can also mean to offend or hurt someone's feelings or rights.

Usage & Nuances

Often literal (stepping on something or someone), but can be used metaphorically (e.g., 'tread on someone's toes'). Mainly in UK English; US English often uses 'step on'. Common with prepositions: 'tread on a snake', 'tread on toes' (offend).

• Spanish: pisar
• Portuguese (BR): pisar
• Portuguese (PT): pisar
• Chinese (Simplified): 踩到
• Chinese (Traditional): 踩到
• Hindi: पैर रखना
• Arabic: داس على
• Bengali: পায়ে踏踏 করা - আঘাত করা (অধিকার/অনুভূতির ক্ষেত্রে)
• Russian: наступить на - задеть (чувства/права)
• Japanese: 踏む - 気分を害する（比喩的）
• Vietnamese: giẫm lên - xúc phạm (nghĩa bóng)
• Korean: 밟다 - 기분을 상하게 하다 (비유적)
• Turkish: basmak - gücendirmek (hak/his açısından)
• Urdu: پر پاؤں رکھنا - دل آزاری کرنا
• Indonesian: menginjak - menyinggung (secara kiasan)

Example Sentences

Be careful not to tread on the flowers.

basic

She trod on my foot during the dance.

basic

Don’t tread on the cracks in the pavement.

basic

I didn’t mean to tread on your feelings.

natural

Try not to tread on anyone’s toes at your new job.

natural

Watch out! You almost trod on a snake.

natural