noun / measure word HSK 4
Traditional 階
step · stair · rank · grade · level
Meaning
阶 refers to a step or stair, both literally (a physical step in a staircase) and metaphorically (a level, rank, or grade in a hierarchy or progression). It commonly appears in compound words related to stairs, stages of development, or social/organizational levels.
Usage
阶 is rarely used alone in modern speech; it typically appears in compound words like 台阶 (steps/stairs), 阶段 (stage/phase), or 阶级 (social class). When referring to physical stairs, 台阶 or 楼梯 are more common. The character also serves as a measure word for steps or stages in a process.
Examples
- 01门口有三个台阶，小心别摔倒。, .There are three steps at the entrance, be careful not to fall.
- 02这个项目已经进入最后阶段了。.This project has already entered its final stage.
Measure words
- 级一级台阶
Common collocations
- 台阶steps, stairs
- 阶段stage, phase
- 阶级斗争class struggle
- 上台阶to go up the steps
Origin
The traditional form 階 combines 阜 (mound, hill) with 皆 (all, everyone), suggesting the idea of steps that everyone must climb on a hillside or structure.