verb / noun HSK 4
to regress · to fall behind · to deteriorate · regression
Meaning
退步 literally means 'to step backward' and refers to declining performance, skill, or progress. It describes when someone's abilities worsen or when they fall behind in studies, work, or personal development compared to a previous level.
Usage
Commonly used in educational contexts to describe students whose grades or performance have declined. Also applies to skills that have gotten rusty or deteriorated. Often appears in phrases like '成绩退步了' (grades have declined) or '不要退步' (don't fall behind). The tone is generally neutral to mildly negative.
Examples
- 01你最近学习退步了，要加油啊。, .Your studies have been slipping recently, you need to work harder.
- 02我的中文水平退步了，因为很久没练习了。, .My Chinese level has deteriorated because I haven't practiced in a long time.
Characters
Common collocations
- 成绩退步grades have declined
- 学习退步studies have regressed
- 退步了has fallen behind / regressed
Antonyms
Origin
The word combines 退 (to retreat/withdraw) and 步 (step), creating the image of stepping backward, which metaphorically represents regression or declining progress.