given way

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "given way" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something has yielded or made room for something else, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "The old traditions have given way to modern practices in the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Hadn't given way.

The New Yorker

Make it "has given way".

The New York Times

20 have given way.

The New York Times

The grief has given way to rage.

Independent

Discos have given way to pharmacies.

The New York Times - Sports

Contrition has since given way to bravado.

The New York Times

Faith has given way to doubt.

The New York Times

Her neighborhood has given way around her.

The New York Times

The carthorse has given way to ponies.

The Economist

Now, cheeky has given way to saucy.

The New York Times - Food

Gallantry has given way to psychopathology.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "given way" to describe a transition where something is replaced or yields to something else, especially in metaphorical or abstract contexts. For example, "The old traditions have given way to modern practices."

Common error

Avoid using "given way" when you simply mean something has been moved or altered slightly. It implies a more significant shift or replacement. Instead of saying "The chair has given way to the table", which is incorrect, use the right sentence: "The chair has been moved and replaced by the table".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "given way" functions primarily as a verb phrase, often part of the past perfect tense, indicating that something has yielded, been replaced, or transitioned into something else. As Ludwig suggests, it is widely used and grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Science

1%

Academia

0%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "given way" is a grammatically correct and very common verb phrase used to describe a transition or replacement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely found in news and media, indicating that something has yielded or been superseded by something else. While versatile, it's important to use it when a significant shift is intended, avoiding its misuse for simple alterations. Alternative phrases like ""yielded"" or ""made way for"" can provide similar meanings with slightly different nuances. As Ludwig also points out, the phrase's neutral register makes it suitable for diverse contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

yielded

Shorter, more direct synonym, emphasizing the act of relinquishing.

made way for

Highlights the act of creating space or opportunity for something else.

been replaced by

Focuses on the substitution aspect, emphasizing the new element.

succumbed to

Implies a yielding under pressure or force.

stepped aside for

Suggests a deliberate or voluntary relinquishing of position.

been superseded by

More formal, emphasizes the replacement with something more advanced or effective.

relinquished to

Highlights the act of formally giving up something.

paved the way for

Emphasizes the enabling of a subsequent event or development.

opened the door to

Suggests a new possibility or opportunity has been created.

capitulated to

Conveys a sense of surrendering or conceding after resistance.

FAQs

How can I use "given way" in a sentence?

You can use "given way" to indicate that something has yielded or been replaced by something else. For example, "The old building has "made way for" a new skyscraper" or "His anger had "yielded" to sadness".

What's the difference between "given way to" and "yielded to"?

"Given way to" and "yielded to" are very similar. However, "given way to" often implies a complete replacement, while "yielded to" can suggest a more gradual or reluctant concession. You can also use "succumbed to" for "yielded to".

What can I say instead of "given way to"?

You can use alternatives like "been replaced by", "made room for", "yielded to", or "paved the way for", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "has given way around her"?

Yes, "has given way around her" is grammatically correct and can be used to describe a situation where the surrounding environment or circumstances have changed, leaving someone isolated or in a different context. This type of sentence is usually used to describe situations.