Pronunciation: [ɹɪtɹˈe͡ɪsɪz stˈɛps] (IPA) 
The spelling of the phrase "retraces steps" can be broken down phonetically as /rɪˈtreɪsɪz stɛps/. The first syllable, "re," is pronounced with a short "i" sound, while "traces" is pronounced with a long "a" sound. The final syllable, "steps," is pronounced with a short "e" sound. The phrase denotes the act of going back over the same path previously taken, and is commonly used in both literal and metaphorical contexts.
The phrase "retraces steps" refers to the act of going back or revisiting the exact path or journey that was previously taken. It is often used to describe a process of retracing one's own footsteps in order to recreate a specific sequence of actions or events that occurred in the past. This phrase can be applied both literally and metaphorically.
In a literal sense, "retracing steps" may involve physically revisiting a previously traveled route, whether it be a path, trail, or road, in order to re-examine or examine further what had happened or to recollect one's thoughts and memories. This action is often taken when one has lost something and aims to find it by retracing the exact path where they had previously been.
Metaphorically, "retracing steps" can describe the process of revisiting one's past choices, actions, or decisions in order to gain a clearer understanding of the events that led to a particular outcome or to reflect upon one's own past experiences. It implies the deliberate act of critically analyzing and evaluating past actions to identify any mistakes or errors made along the way.
Overall, "retracing steps" involves the intentional act of retracing one's own path, whether literal or metaphorical, for the purpose of rediscovering or gaining insights into aspects of the past that could be crucial for future actions or understanding.
The word "retraces" is derived from the French word "retracer", which consists of the prefix "re-" (meaning again or back) and the verb "tracer" (to trace or follow). "Tracer" itself comes from the Latin word "tractare", meaning to handle or manage. The phrase "retraces steps" implies going back over previously taken paths or following one's previous actions or movements.
