on toes

ADJECTIVE

vigilant

Synonyms

STRONGEST

anxious attentive aware cautious circumspect keen observant wary

WEAK

acute agog alert guarded looking for looking to on alert on guard on the ball on the job on the lookout on the qui vive open-eyed sharp sleepless unsleeping waiting on wakeful wide-awake with eyes peeled with weather eye open

Antonyms

STRONGEST

careless heedless ignorant inattentive incautious indifferent indiscreet rash thoughtless unaware uncareful unobservant

WEAK

impulsive negligent

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Aside from inconveniencing other moviegoers as they shuffle past, stepping on toes and grabbing seatbacks after the lights have gone down, they’re missing every single trailer for an upcoming attraction.

From Salon • May 22, 2025

“As a previous captain who fitted back into the set-up, you’re so aware of not stepping on toes, not saying stuff in team meetings that is different to the captain’s message,” said Cook.

From BBC • Aug. 29, 2024

To connect with both men, Dickert has had to find the right balance, offering his perspective without stepping on toes, using his background to find an edge without overlapping.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 22, 2023

He’s more likely to stomp on toes than walk on eggshells.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 12, 2023

With his wisdom and calmness, his patience and organizational skills, his ability to lead and inspire without stepping on toes, Oliver was the perfect choice for this assignment.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela

on toes

Example Sentences

Related Words