One step forward, two steps back

usgb
idiom

To make progress but then experience setbacks that take you back to your original position or further behind.

Every time I think I'm getting ahead with my studies, something else comes up and I end up feeling like it's one step forward, two steps back.
Visual representation of "one step forward, two steps back" - To make progress but then experience setbacks that take you back to your original position or further behind.

Often appears as...

  • feel like it's one step forward
  • two steps back

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "one step forward, two steps back"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Metaphorical meaning

Understand it's not literal walking; it expresses frustration over progress being undone by setbacks.

Illustration for Metaphorical meaning
After fixing one bug, two more appeared, feeling like one step forward, two steps back.
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Figurative usage

Used figuratively, emphasizing negative progress in tasks, projects, relationships, and self-improvement.

Illustration for Figurative usage
Her constant arguing with her partner is like one step forward, two steps back in their relationship.
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Frustration expression

Often conveys a sense of frustration or disappointment when efforts do not yield expected results.

Illustration for Frustration expression
He studied hard but failed the test, it's one step forward, two steps back.
Visual representation of the word "One step forward, two steps back"

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