make way

To move aside or be removed so someone or something else can pass or take your place.

• Please make way for the children.
• The crowd made way as the ambulance approached.
• Old shops were demolished to make way for new flats.

How to use it: make way for someone/something (Cars moved aside to make way for the ambulance.)

Similar words: move aside, step aside, give way

Common phrases: make way for someone, make way for something

To move forward or become more successful.

• We are beginning to make way.
• Despite the setbacks, the team made way with its research.
• He worked hard to make his way in the world.

How to use it: make one’s way in something (She made her way in the business world.)

Similar words: progress, advance

Common phrases: make way slowly, make way steadily

If a boat does this, it moves forward through the water.

• The boat began to make way.
• With its engine running, the ship made way against the current.
• The vessel could barely make way in the strong wind.

How to use it: make way through something (The ship made way through rough seas.)

Similar words: advance, move forward

Common phrases: make way slowly, make way ahead

You say this to tell people to move aside so you or something else can pass.

• Make way, please!
• Make way! This box is heavy.
• Make way for the doctor!

How to use it: make way for someone/something (Make way for the stretcher!)

Similar words: move aside, coming through

Common phrases: make way please, make way everyone