stepping aside

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "stepping aside" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that someone is withdrawing from a situation or allowing someone else to take their place. Example: "After much consideration, I have decided that it's time for me to be stepping aside and let a new leader take charge."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

So we're stepping aside".

The New York Times

"He's not stepping aside.

The Washington Post

They're not stepping aside.

The New York Times

Now both are stepping aside.

The Washington Post

"The president is stepping aside on this.

The New York Times

Not by stepping aside to democracy.

The Guardian - Opinion

But his stepping aside as chief executive clearly changes things.

The Economist

He served just one term, stepping aside in 1999.

The New York Times

As for Ms. Mattila, she wouldn't dream of stepping aside.

The New York Times - Arts

I'm not stepping aside after 38 years in public office".

The New York Times

He is stepping aside, I think, to learn.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the formality of the situation. "Stepping aside" is generally neutral, but in more formal contexts, phrases like "relinquishing authority" might be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "stepping aside" when the person is merely taking a temporary break or delegating a task. "Stepping aside" implies a more permanent or significant withdrawal from a role or responsibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stepping aside" functions primarily as a verb phrase indicating the act of withdrawing from a position or responsibility. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound. Examples show its usage in professional and personal contexts, denoting a voluntary or required departure.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "stepping aside" is a commonly used verb phrase to describe the act of withdrawing from a position or responsibility, often to allow someone else to take over. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While generally neutral in tone, its appropriateness depends on the context, and care should be taken to ensure it accurately reflects a more permanent withdrawal rather than a temporary absence. Consider alternatives like "standing down" or "relinquishing authority" for nuanced communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

standing down

Implies a formal resignation or retirement from a position.

vacating the position

Highlights the act of leaving a specific role or office.

handing over the reins

Emphasizes the act of transferring responsibility to a successor.

ceding control

Emphasizes the transfer of control to another party.

bowing out

Indicates a graceful exit from a situation or competition.

relinquishing authority

Focuses on the act of giving up power or control.

leaving the stage

Suggests a deliberate and often public departure from a prominent role.

withdrawing from leadership

Specifically refers to leaving a leadership role.

making way for others

Highlights the intention of allowing others to progress or succeed.

taking a back seat

Suggests reducing involvement or influence in a situation.

FAQs

What does "stepping aside" mean?

"Stepping aside" generally means to withdraw from a position, role, or responsibility, often to allow someone else to take over. It implies a relinquishing of control or authority.

What are some synonyms for "stepping aside"?

Alternatives to "stepping aside" include "standing down", "relinquishing authority", "ceding control", or "vacating the position", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "stepping aside"?

It's appropriate when someone is permanently or significantly withdrawing from a role, allowing another person to assume those responsibilities. It is not suitable for temporary absences or task delegation.

How does "stepping aside" differ from "taking a break"?

"Stepping aside" implies a more permanent move, relinquishing a role for someone else. "Taking a break", on the other hand, suggests a temporary absence with the intention of returning.