This is the 868th most frequent Russian word.
шаг
Step.
'Шаг' is used metaphorically to symbolize a progression or advancement in context.
Каждое наше решение — это шаг к будущему.
Each of our decisions is a step towards the future.
Here, the plural form 'шаги' (steps) refers to the sounds made by walking.
Мы слышали шаги за дверью.
We heard footsteps behind the door.
Here, 'шаг' (step) is used to represent a literal physical movement.