step aside

To move to one side so someone or something can pass.

• Please step aside.
• He stepped aside to let the children pass.
• Could you step aside so I can open the door?

How to use it: step aside for someone/something (Please step aside for the ambulance crew.)

Similar words: move aside, move out of the way

Common phrases: step aside briefly, step aside politely

To leave a job or position so someone else can take it.

• The manager agreed to step aside.
• She stepped aside as party leader last spring.
• Will he step aside and let someone else lead?

How to use it: step aside as someone (She stepped aside as chair after ten years.); step aside for someone (He stepped aside for a younger candidate.)

Similar words: step down, stand down, withdraw

Common phrases: step aside voluntarily, step aside gracefully

To walk a short distance away from other people for a while.

• They stepped aside for a private talk.
• She asked him to step aside with her.
• We stepped aside while the guests continued dancing.

How to use it: step aside to do something (They stepped aside to discuss the matter privately.)

Similar words: withdraw, retire

Common phrases: step aside briefly, step aside together

To stop behaving correctly or following the right course.

• Even honest people may step aside.
• She stepped aside from the path of virtue.
• He feared that temptation would make his son step aside.

How to use it: step aside from something (He stepped aside from the path of duty.)

Similar words: go astray, err

Common phrases: step aside morally, step aside from duty