noun a movement made by lifting one foot and putting it down in a different place
verb move to one side; to move out of the way
In a military operation, soldiers may be ordered to step aside to allow for the passage of vehicles or equipment, or to avoid being in the line of fire.
During a political debate or confrontation, one party may ask the other to step aside to allow for a clearer view or to de-escalate a tense situation.
In a business meeting or negotiation, one party may suggest that another step aside to allow for a different perspective or to make room for new ideas.
In sports such as boxing or wrestling, a fighter may be instructed to step aside to give their opponent space or to avoid a collision.
When a suspect is being apprehended by law enforcement, they may be instructed to step aside to allow officers to pass or to move away from a certain area.
In the world of writing, 'step aside' can be used to indicate taking a break from a project or letting someone else take the lead in a particular aspect of the writing process.
Psychologists may use 'step aside' to suggest temporarily moving away from a particular issue or topic during a therapy session to gain a new perspective or approach.
Chefs might use 'step aside' to ask a sous chef or another team member to take over a task or responsibility temporarily.
Teachers could use 'step aside' to encourage students to let others take the lead in a group project or discussion.
CEOs may use 'step aside' to indicate temporarily relinquishing control or decision-making power to another executive or team member.