step aside

IPA/stˈɛp ɐsˈaɪd/
IPA/stˈɛp ɐsˈaɪd/

step aside — phrasal verb

  • step asidebase form
  • steps aside3rd person singular
  • stepping aside-ing form
  • stepped asidepast simple

1. to take one or two steps sideways, especially in order to create enough space fo

1.片語動詞不及物A2
釋義

to take one or two steps sideways, especially in order to create enough space for someone or something to pass by freely

例句

Sirin asked the passengers to step aside so the stretcher could get through the train doors.

step aside + so that-clause

The gardener stepped aside to let Lakshmi wheel her bicycle past the narrow garden gate.

step aside + to let [someone] [do something]

同義詞
  • move aside

    less specific — can involve shifting any object or body part, not just the feet

  • stand aside

    implies staying out of the way after moving, rather than continuing to move

  • make way

    slightly more formal; often used for crowds or processions

反義詞
  • block

    to stay in the way instead of moving

文法句型

step aside

step aside + for [someone]

step aside + to let [someone] [verb]

用法筆記

This sense always refers to a physical, bodily movement. The phrase can be used as a polite command ('Step aside, please.') or a request in crowded or emergency situations.

常見錯誤

❌Please step aside your car.
✅Please move your car aside.
💡'step aside' never takes a direct object; the movement is always the subject's own body.

2. to voluntarily give up a role, job, or official position so that another person

2.片語動詞不及物B2
釋義

to voluntarily give up a role, job, or official position so that another person can take over the responsibilities

例句

After twelve years as CEO, Stefan decided to step aside and let a younger person lead the company.

step aside + for [successor]

The board asked the director to step aside while they investigated the missing funds.

ask [someone] + to step aside

同義詞
  • step down

    more common in everyday use; suggests giving up a position of authority

  • resign

    formal; implies a written or official departure process

  • stand down

    slightly more formal; often used in political or military contexts

反義詞
  • take over

    to assume the role that someone else has left

文法句型

step aside + as [role]

step aside + from [position/committee]

step aside + for [successor]

用法筆記

Often followed by 'as' (+ title) or 'from' (+ group/organisation). This sense is common in news reports and formal announcements about leadership changes. Unlike 'resign', it often implies the person is making room for someone else, not leaving in anger or under a cloud.

常見錯誤

❌She stepped aside the project because of illness.
✅She stepped aside from the project because of illness.
💡'step aside' needs 'from' before the thing being left, not a direct object.
❌He stepped aside for a minute to take the call.' (when meaning a short break)
✅He stepped out for a minute to take the call.
💡'step aside' for leaving a role implies permanence, not a brief pause.