step aside
phrasal verb·1 sense·particle aside
Meanings
Move to one side, or resign from a role
Why “aside”? Someone moves away from a path, group, role, or task. This creates space for another person or a private moment.
“He stepped aside as chairman.”
“Maya stepped aside as project leader.”
“She stepped aside to let the doctor pass.”
Don't confuse with
Step aside means move to one side, or resign from a role. Step forward means volunteer to take responsibility or come into view.
Test yourself
“He stepped aside as chairman.” What does it mean?
Nearby in the meaning map
Sink In connects verbs by particle pattern, contrast pairs, and shared base verbs.
step forward
A contrast learners often mix up
Volunteer to take responsibility or come into view
draw aside
Same aside pattern: side step
Take someone gently to one side for a private word
move aside
Same aside pattern: side step
Step out of the way to let someone or something pass
stand aside
Same aside pattern: side step
Move out of the way or step down from a role
take aside
Same aside pattern: side step
Lead someone away from others to talk privately
turn aside
Same aside pattern: side step
Move to one side, usually to make space
step back
Same base verb: step
Move backward to give space
step down
Same base verb: step
Resign from an important position
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