moved aside

USAGE SUMMARY

"moved aside" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use "moved aside" to describe when someone physically moves to the side in order to make room for someone or something else, or to avoid something. Example: Mary moved aside to let the bus pass by on the narrow street.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Nadal moved aside for Federer.

The New York Times - Sports

Pavel moved aside to allow Kate a better view.

The New Yorker

Moved aside to let Ahmet and Mica out.

The New Yorker

The crowd surged forward; the police moved aside, looking sheepish.

The New York Times

Similarly, Mr. Lee, the set designer, was moved aside.

The New York Times

The coffee table has been moved aside, some chairs arranged.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

Move aside Korea.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Move aside, pancakes.

The Washington Post

Move aside, Tom Daley.

The Guardian - Sport

But for once, move aside Ronaldo, Messi and Villa.

The New York Times - Sports

Move aside, the troops shouted.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "moved aside" when you want to describe a physical action of someone creating space, either literally or figuratively. It works well in both active and passive voice constructions.

Common error

Avoid using "moved aside" interchangeably with phrases like "stepped down" if the context requires the latter's implication of resigning from a position of power. "Moved aside" primarily indicates a spatial shift, not necessarily a change in status.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "moved aside" primarily functions as a phrasal verb, indicating a physical or figurative shift in position. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. It can denote creating space for someone or something or relinquishing a role.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "moved aside" is a versatile phrasal verb used to describe the act of creating space or relinquishing a position. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely used, particularly in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business contexts. While alternatives like "stepped aside" or "made way" exist, "moved aside" maintains a neutral tone suitable for various writing styles. When using it, ensure the context aligns with the intended meaning, focusing on spatial rearrangement or transfer of responsibilities. Keep in mind its prevalence in reliable sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stepped aside

Focuses on the action of stepping, implying a deliberate movement away.

made way

Emphasizes the act of creating space for someone or something.

yielded

Highlights a relinquishing of position or authority.

gave ground

Implies a retreat or concession of territory.

cleared the way

Stresses the removal of obstacles.

withdrew

Focuses on the act of retreating or drawing back.

relinquished position

Formally describes giving up a place or role.

vacated the space

Emphasizes the act of leaving an area.

bowed out

Suggests a formal or graceful exit.

ceded the floor

Implies giving up the opportunity to speak or perform.

FAQs

How to use "moved aside" in a sentence?

You can use "moved aside" to describe a physical action of creating space, as in, "She "moved aside" to let him pass". It can also mean relinquishing a position, such as, "He was "moved aside" to make way for a younger leader".

What can I say instead of "moved aside"?

You can use alternatives like "stepped aside", "made way", or "yielded", depending on the specific context and intended nuance.

Is "moved aside" formal or informal?

"Moved aside" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, in very formal situations, "relinquished position" might be more appropriate when discussing a role or responsibility.

Which is correct, "moved aside" or "moved to the side"?

Both ""moved aside"" and "moved to the side" are grammatically correct. "Moved aside" is more concise and idiomatic, while "moved to the side" is more descriptive and literal. The best choice depends on the desired level of formality and emphasis.