get in the way — to prevent someone from moving or doing something by blocking their path or interfering with their activities
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: to prevent someone from moving or doing something by blocking their path or interfering with their activities
Pronunciation (IPA): /ɡet ɪn ðə weɪ/
Example Sentences
- My cat always gets in the way when I'm trying to do yoga.
- Don't let fear get in the way of your dreams.
- His ego gets in the way of making real friends.
get in the way
VERB[/ɡet ɪn ðə weɪ/]
to prevent someone from moving or doing something by blocking their path or interfering with their activities
to prevent someone from moving or doing something by blocking their path or interfering with their activities
Construction trucks get in the way of his play all day!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
This phrase combines 'get' (from Old Norse geta, meaning to obtain or become) and 'way' (from Old English weg, meaning path or road), documented since the 14th century. The expression developed from the literal sense of blocking someone's path to the figurative meaning of obstructing progress or plans.
Breakdown
get (to obtain, become) + in (preposition indicating position or state) + the (definite article) + way (path, road, or method). The phrase constructs a metaphor where physical obstruction on a path represents interference with someone's progress or intentions.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My cat always gets in the way when I'm trying to do yoga.”
“Don't let fear get in the way of your dreams.”
“His ego gets in the way of making real friends.”
“The huge Christmas tree got in the way of watching TV.”
📚Related Words
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