get in the way

USAGE SUMMARY

"get in the way" is a correct phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe a hindrance or obstacle that prevents progress. For example, "The long line at the grocery store was getting in the way of my errands."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Things get in the way.

The Economist

Reconciliation can get in the way.

The Economist

No human egos get in the way.

The Economist

Other things get in the way.

The New York Times

Why let facts get in the way?

The New York Times

Speak out, and get in the way.

The New York Times

History can get in the way.

The Economist

"They get in the way".

The New York Times - Science

Don't get in the way.

The Guardian - Film

Glasses get in the way.

The New Yorker

Don't let depression get in the way.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "get in the way" when referring to obstacles that directly prevent progress or hinder an action. For example, "Don't let your fears "get in the way" of pursuing your dreams."

Common error

Avoid using "get in the way" when a more precise verb like "obstruct", "hinder", or "impede" would better convey the specific nature of the interference. For instance, instead of saying "Bureaucracy got in the way of the project", try "Bureaucracy obstructed the project".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "get in the way" functions as an idiomatic verb phrase. It typically describes something that obstructs, hinders, or prevents progress. Ludwig AI confirms that it is a correct and commonly used phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Academia

8%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

13%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "get in the way" is a frequently used idiomatic verb phrase that signifies obstruction or hindrance. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. Predominantly found in news and academic contexts, it maintains a neutral register applicable across various communication styles. When writing, ensure its aptness in describing impediments to progress and consider nuanced alternatives for more precise conveyance. Using this guide helps clarify its function and application.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be an obstacle

Directly states that something is a barrier.

stand in the path

More direct and literal, suggesting a physical or metaphorical barrier.

impede progress

Formal alternative focusing on slowing down advancement.

be a stumbling block

Suggests something that causes someone to hesitate or fail.

obstruct advancement

Similar to impede, but with a stronger sense of blocking progress.

hamper progress

Focuses on making progress more difficult.

hinder development

Specifically refers to slowing down or preventing development.

throw a wrench in the works

Idiomatic and informal, implying disruption of a plan.

slow down

Less idiomatic and more literal than "get in the way".

create difficulties

More general, indicating the creation of problems.

FAQs

How can I use "get in the way" in a sentence?

You can use "get in the way" to describe something that prevents progress or hinders an action. For example, "Don't let your personal feelings "get in the way" of making objective decisions."

What can I say instead of "get in the way"?

You can use alternatives like "impede progress", "obstruct advancement", or "be an obstacle" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say 'getting in the way'?

Yes, 'getting in the way' is the present participle form and is used in continuous tenses or as a gerund. For example, "His constant complaining was getting in the way of our work."

What's the difference between "get in the way" and "stand in the way"?

"Get in the way" implies something is actively hindering progress, while "stand in the path" suggests a more passive obstruction, like a barrier. Both are related but the level of activity is different.