make way

present singular third person makes way · participle present making way · participle past made way · past made way

1. figurativelyTo make progress.

   He was starting to make his way in the world.

2. nauticalTo progress through the water.
3. To give place or step aside.

   Many analysts say he remains Russia's paramount leader despite stepping down as president to make way for Medvedev

   2008 September 15, Philip P. Pan, “In Wake of Georgian War, Russian Media Feel Heat”, in Washington Post, page A14

   2 more examples

   Chelsea made two changes to the side that lost at Manchester United, with Frank Lampard making way for John Obi Mikel and Nicolas Anelka starting ahead of Didier Drogba.

   2011 September 24, Aled Williams, “Chelsea 4 - 1 Swansea”, in BBC Sport

   Two entrants shared this award for their work on two quite different stations, but with the same purpose of bringing a redundant station building back into use for the benefit of the community, with the added result of conserving an historic building. Saltash Town Council bought Saltash station building after it had become very decrepit and 'an eyesore' - such that it was nearly pulled down to make way for housing.

   2021 December 15, Robin Leleux, “Awards honour the best restoration projects: The Network Rail Community Award: Saltash and Stow”, in RAIL, number 946, page 58

   Synonyms: give place, give way

1. nauticalAn instruction for someone to get out of the way, usually because the speaker is carrying something and needs a clear pathway.