to step aside

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'to step aside' is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it in a sentence such as: "I decided to step aside and let them handle the situation." This phrase is often used to describe someone voluntarily relinquishing their authority or role in a situation.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

To step aside?

The New Yorker

"This is my moment to step aside".

The New York Times

Mr. Paterson has refused to step aside.

The New York Times

"Everyone else has to step aside".

The New York Times - Sports

"It is time to step aside".

The New York Times

Mr Gbagbo needs to step aside immediately".

The Guardian

He offered yesterday to step aside temporarily.

The Guardian

He wouldn't ask me to step aside".

The New York Times

Mr Hu is not obliged to step aside then.

The Economist

Whichever comes second would normally face pressure to step aside.

The Economist

I have no plans to step aside, not at all".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to step aside" when you want to convey a voluntary or expected relinquishing of power or responsibility. It often implies making room for someone else.

Common error

Avoid using "to step aside" when you mean to indicate a temporary absence. Use phrases like "to take a break" or "to take a leave of absence" for temporary situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to step aside" primarily functions as an infinitive verb phrase, often used within a larger sentence structure to indicate an action or intention. It generally signifies the act of vacating a position, role, or responsibility, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Academia

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to step aside" is a commonly used and grammatically sound expression signifying the act of relinquishing a position or responsibility. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, highlighting its frequent use in news and media contexts. While it often implies a voluntary action, it can also describe situations where someone is compelled to leave their role. Alternatives like "to resign" or "to relinquish control" offer similar meanings, but "to step aside" often carries a nuanced implication of creating space for others. When writing, remember to use "to step aside" appropriately, avoiding confusion with temporary absences and considering the context to ensure accurate communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to resign

Indicates a formal act of leaving a position, often permanently.

to relinquish control

Focuses on giving up power or authority over something.

to yield one's position

Highlights the act of surrendering a specific role or title.

to make way for

Suggests creating space or opportunity for someone else.

to vacate the office

Specifically refers to leaving a formal office or position.

to take a backseat

Implies a reduction in involvement or influence.

to withdraw from

Indicates a departure from a situation or activity.

to bow out

Suggests a graceful or planned exit.

to cede authority

Emphasizes the transfer of power to another party.

to hand over the reins

Refers to passing control to someone else.

FAQs

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

You can use "to step aside" to indicate someone is voluntarily relinquishing a role or position. For example: "The CEO decided "to step aside" to allow new leadership to take over."

What is the difference between "to step aside" and "to resign"?

"To step aside" often suggests a more nuanced departure, possibly temporary or under pressure, while "to resign" usually implies a formal and permanent departure from a position.

What are some alternatives to "to step aside"?

Some alternatives include "to relinquish control", "to yield one's position", or "to make way for", depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "to step aside"?

It's appropriate when someone is leaving a position, whether voluntarily or due to external pressure, and their departure creates an opportunity for others or signifies a change in leadership.