* Step: This is the most common meaning of "步" and is often used in phrases like "一步一步" (yī bù yī bù), meaning "step by step."
* Pace: "步" can also refer to the speed or rate of progress, such as in "步调一致" (bù diào yī zhì), meaning "in step."
* Measure of distance: "步" can be used as a unit of distance, roughly equivalent to a pace or stride. However, this usage is less common in modern Chinese.
There are also many idiomatic expressions that use "步," such as:
* 步步为营 (bù bù wéi yíng): To proceed cautiously, making sure every step is secure.
* 步履维艰 (bù lǚ wéi jiān): To walk with difficulty, to have a hard time moving forward.
* 步步高升 (bù bù gāo shēng): To rise steadily in rank or position.
It's important to note that "bu" alone does not have a specific meaning. You need to consider the context of the phrase or sentence to understand the intended meaning.
For example, "bu" could mean:
* "step" in "我走了一步" (wǒ zǒu le yī bù) – I took a step.
* "pace" in "我们步调一致" (wǒ men bù diào yī zhì) – We are in step.
* "measure of distance" in "这块田地有十步长" (zhè kuài tián dì yǒu shí bù cháng) – This field is ten paces long.
If you can provide more context, I can give you a more specific answer.