in the way of

In a position that blocks someone or something from moving or doing something.

• The car is in the way of traffic.
• A fallen tree stood in the way of the cyclists.
• Did pride get in the way of an agreement?

How to use it: in the way of someone/something (The boxes were in the way of the workers.)

Similar words: in the path of

Common phrases: in the way of, in the way of…

Concerning a particular kind of thing, especially what is available or provided.

• What do you have in the way of food?
• The hotel offers little in the way of entertainment.
• They provided nothing in the way of practical help.

How to use it: something in the way of something (We have little in the way of cooking equipment.)

Similar words: in terms of, regarding, with respect to

Common phrases: in the way of, in the way of food

Used to say what kind of thing something is, or what is available of that kind.

• There was little in the way of food.
• What can you offer in the way of help?
• She brought flowers in the way of a small gift.

How to use it: in the way of something (What do they offer in the way of entertainment?)

Similar words: as, in the form of

Common phrases: in the way of, in the way of…

In a position where someone is likely to get or achieve something.

• She was in the way of promotion.
• The appointment put him in the way of making a fortune.
• His new contacts placed him in the way of achieving his ambition.

How to use it: be in the way of doing something (He was in the way of making a fortune.)

Similar words: in a position to

Common phrases: in the way of, in the way of promotion