The simple gliding step is the pas glissé. It is executed by gliding the foot along the floor. It may move in any direction. Used as indicated in figures 20, 21 and 22, the step becomes a glissade.
A chassé, in effect, “chases” one foot from its place by means of a touch from the other. For instance: the feet are in second position, weight on the right foot; bring the left foot sharply up to this position behind the right foot; at the instant of contact, let the right foot glide sharply out to second position on the right side. The step also may be executed toward the front or toward the rear. It keeps both feet on the floor.
Executing a series of chassés: simple chassés commence the step, each repetition, with the same foot. Alternating chassés are begun with each foot in turn.
A coupé is analogous to a chassé; but the foot that is displaced leaves the floor and goes to more or less height in the air. Both coupé and chassé give an impression of one foot kicking the other out of place.