There are several synonyms for the phrase "a step from" that can be used to convey proximity or a small distance. For example, the phrase "on the brink of" suggests a critical point, while "nearby" suggests a location that is close at hand. Other common synonyms include "close to," "adjacent to," and "in the vicinity of." Additionally, "a stone's throw from" and "a hop, skip, and jump away from" convey a sense of playfulness and lightness. Overall, these synonyms offer a range of options for writers seeking to add specificity and nuance to their descriptions of proximity and distance.