step aside

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "step aside" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that someone should move away from a given location, or to suggest that someone should stop doing something and allow someone else to take their place. Example: "Please step aside and let me take the lead on this project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Film

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Step aside!

The New York Times

To step aside?

The New Yorker

Step aside Downton.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Naysayers step aside.

The Guardian

"Step aside," she boomed.

The New York Times

"People will step aside.

The Guardian - Film

Now, please step aside.

The New Yorker

"The government should step aside.

The Economist

Mr Onu would step aside.

The Economist

So step aside, Barry Bonds.

The New York Times - Sports

Step aside the dowager duchess.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "step aside" when you want someone to physically move out of the way, or figuratively to allow someone else to take charge. It can also be used to indicate that someone should stop interfering.

Common error

Avoid using "step aside" in highly formal or professional documents where more sophisticated vocabulary is expected. Alternatives like "relinquish position" or "withdraw" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "step aside" functions primarily as a phrasal verb, used to issue a directive or request. According to Ludwig, this phrase is correct and usable in written English. It commands someone to physically move or to yield a position.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Film

15%

Sports

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

7%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "step aside" is a common and versatile expression used to request someone to move physically or to relinquish a position. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and frequently appears in news and media. While versatile, it leans towards a neutral to informal register, suggesting caution in highly formal contexts where alternatives like "relinquish position" might be more fitting. Remember to choose the phrasing that suits the specific context and audience for clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

move over

Indicates a request to physically move to create space.

make way

Similar to "move over", but often implies a need for immediate passage.

give way

Implies yielding or allowing someone else to proceed.

yield

A more formal way of saying "give way", indicating a surrender of precedence.

stand down

Suggests resigning from a position or ceasing an action.

relinquish position

A formal expression for giving up a role or office.

withdraw

Suggests a retreat or removal from a situation.

make room

To physically create space or figuratively allow opportunity.

vacate the area

Implies leaving a specific location.

back off

Suggests retreating from an argument or confrontation.

FAQs

How can I use "step aside" in a sentence?

You can use "step aside" to ask someone to physically move, such as "Please, "step aside" so I can see". It can also mean to give up a role or position: "The CEO decided to "step aside" to allow new leadership".

What are some alternatives to "step aside"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "move over", "make way", or "stand down". Choose the phrase that best fits the specific situation.

Is "step aside" formal or informal?

"Step aside" is generally considered to be informal. In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "relinquish position" or "withdraw".

When should I use "step aside" instead of "move over"?

Use "move over" primarily when asking someone to shift their physical position. "Step aside" can be used more broadly, including situations where someone is asked to yield a position or opportunity, while "move over" is used exclusively for physical displacement.