Particle guide

Phrasal verbs with aside

The particle aside starts from one core idea — to one side, away from the main path or focus. Sink In groups its verbs by the recurring ways that idea plays out, so verbs that look unrelated line up into patterns.

14 phrasal verbs · 3 meaning groups

Reserve

Something is kept separate and available for a future purpose.

Ignoring

A thought, feeling, person, or objection is ignored or rejected.

Side Step

Someone moves away from a path, group, role, or task. This creates space for another person or a private moment.

Usual verb + particle uses

The verb keeps its normal meaning. The particle adds its usual direction or relation.

draw aside

Take someone gently to one side for a private word

She drew him aside for a quiet word.
She took him gently to one side for a private word.
The nurse drew my sister aside in the hallway.
The nurse took my sister gently to one side for a private word.

move aside

Step out of the way to let someone or something pass

Move aside, please.
Step out of the way, please.
The driver moved aside for the ambulance.
The driver stepped out of the way for the ambulance.

take aside

Lead someone away from others to talk privately

She took him aside for a quiet word.
She led him away from others to speak privately.
The coach took Nina aside after practice.
The coach led Nina away from others to speak privately.

turn aside

Move to one side, usually to make space

Maya turned aside to let the doctor pass.
Maya moved to one side so the doctor could pass.
The guard turned aside as the ambulance came through the gate.
The guard moved to one side as the ambulance entered.
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1,300+ phrasal verbs26 particle patternsBuilt for B1–C2
Sink In particle aside shown through its meaning patterns