get in the way of — to obstruct, hinder, or prevent someone from doing something or something from happening
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: to obstruct, hinder, or prevent someone from doing something or something from happening
Pronunciation (IPA): /ɡɛt ɪn ðə weɪ ʌv/
Example Sentences
- My little brother always gets in the way of my study time by asking silly questions.
- The construction on the road is getting in the way of our commute.
- I love pizza, but my diet plan keeps getting in the way of that love affair.
get in the way of
VERB[/ɡɛt ɪn ðə weɪ ʌv/]
to obstruct, hinder, or prevent someone from doing something or something from happening
Piles of paperwork get in the way of the manager finishing her real project.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
This phrase derives from the literal image of physically entering 'in the way' to block passage. Originally describing situations where one literally obstructed another's path, it gradually extended to the abstract sense of impeding plans, goals, or progress.
Breakdown
get (to enter/move) + in (within) + the way (path) + of (belonging to) = to enter into someone's path, hence to obstruct or hinder their actions or objectives.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My little brother always gets in the way of my study time by asking silly questions.”
“The construction on the road is getting in the way of our commute.”
“I love pizza, but my diet plan keeps getting in the way of that love affair.”
“Don't let ego get in the way of teamwork.”
“The cat sat right on my keyboard, getting in the way of my typing.”
📚Related Words
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