The term 'A STEP MISS' can be solved by the crossword solutions RUNG (4 letters), PAS (3 letters), and NEAR (4 letters). RUNG is a noun that refers to a crosspiece between two sides of a ladder, while PAS is a French verb meaning 'to step'. Finally, NEAR is an adjective meaning close or not far away. Together, these three words form the phrase 'A Step Miss', which is a common idiom used to describe a situation in which someone has almost achieved their goal but falls short.