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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.

And if it had no good reason—as she strongly implied—it ought to step aside and let the lower courts do their work.

From Slate • Mar. 17, 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 an email to staff shared on social media by one of the newspaper's reporters, Lewis said it was "the right time for me to step aside."

From Barron's • Feb. 7, 2026

There were widespread calls for the bishop to step aside after the Channel 4 programme aired, with church leaders calling his position "untenable".

From BBC • Jan. 16, 2026

Once I reach our room, I lower my eyes and step aside to let Jack use his key.

From "The Sea in Winter" by Christine Day