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Definitions

step aside

VERB
avoid
Synonyms
STRONGEST
avert bypass dodge escape evade fend off shun sidestep ward off
STRONG
abstain circumvent deflect desist ditch divert duck elude eschew flee hide jump obviate recoil shake shirk shy skip skirt weave withdraw
WEAK
circumlocute cold-shoulder fake out give the slip hold off keep clear lay low run for cover shake and bake shake off shrink from shuffle off skip out on skip town stay away stay out steer clear of turn aside
Antonyms
STRONGEST
face meet
STRONG
allow help permit stay take on
WEAK
seek want

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Powell has made clear he doesn’t intend to step aside while the case is unresolved.

From Barron's • Apr. 7, 2026

On Thursday, Republicans urged Gonzales to step aside, and that night he ended his campaign.

From Slate • Mar. 9, 2026

The executives believe Wasserman will likely step aside from the music agency and sell that wing of his company.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 11, 2026

"In the circumstances, the only honourable course is to step aside."

From BBC • Feb. 8, 2026

I take her by the hand, lead her to the door, hold it open, and step aside to give her a good view of the principal.

From "You Bring the Distant Near" by Mitali Perkins