GET IN THE WAY OF

National Parks

📖 Definition

The phrasal verb 'get in the way of' means to obstruct or hinder progress. It implies that something is causing an impediment or difficulty that prevents someone from achieving their goals or carrying out activities smoothly.

Examples in context

📖 Definition

The phrasal verb 'get in the way of' means to obstruct or hinder progress. It implies that something is causing an impediment or difficulty that prevents someone from achieving their goals or carrying out activities smoothly.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable
No
The object cannot be placed between the verb and preposition.
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Neutral
Used in both casual and formal contexts.
Transitive
Yes
Requires a direct object that is being obstructed.

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense Form Example
Present Simple get in the way of Her lack of experience can get in the way of her promotion.
Past Simple got in the way of His injuries got in the way of his performance.
Present Continuous getting in the way of The rainy weather is getting in the way of our plans.
Present Perfect have gotten in the way of Their arguments have gotten in the way of their friendship.

💡 When to Use

Facing an obstacle
Use when something or someone is preventing progress or completion of a task.
Example: "The noise from construction has been getting in the way of my concentration."
Expressing frustration
Apply when expressing annoyance at an impediment blocking desired outcomes.
Example: "His constant negativity got in the way of our team's success."
Evaluating impediments
Appropriate for analyzing factors that inhibit progress or achievement in projects or goals.
Example: "Economic downturns often get in the way of business expansion."

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Incorrect verb form
❌ Wrong: He gotten in the way of my plans.
✅ Correct: He got in the way of my plans.
💡 Tip: Remember past tense: 'got,' not 'gotten,' for simple past.
Missing object
❌ Wrong: The rain gets in the way.
✅ Correct: The rain gets in the way of the parade.
💡 Tip: Always specify what is being obstructed.
Incorrect preposition
❌ Wrong: He got on the way of success.
✅ Correct: He got in the way of success.
💡 Tip: Use 'in' not 'on' with this phrase.
Practice

GET IN THE WAY OF - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

  1. Listen and repeat the audio as many times as needed to improve your pronunciation
  2. Use the audio as a dictation exercise, trying to write what you hear and understand
  3. Create a new sentence following the structure of the example sentences

Examples in Context

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

obstruct hinder

Antonyms

facilitate

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"His personal issues often ___ in the way of his work performance."

get on the road of
get in the way of
go in the way of
get to the way of

"When dreams get in the way of responsibility, one must balance aspiration with obligation to truly achieve greatness in life."

In Context

In 1607, the Virginia Company of London's expedition led by Captain John Smith aimed to establish the first permanent English settlement in Jamestown, Virginia. Smith, a tenacious leader, faced constant challenges that got in the way of his mission. Harsh winters, diseases, and tense relations with indigenous tribes continually got in the way of their progress. Smith's diplomatic and survival skills were essential as he navigated these setbacks. Despite obstacles that often got in the way of peace and prosperity, Smith negotiated with the Powhatan Confederacy for resources, ensuring the colony's survival during its early years. However, a gunpowder explosion injured him in 1609, forcing him to return to England, effectively getting in the way of his plans for further exploration. Smith's efforts laid the foundation for future settlements, yet his story reminds us that barriers, although disruptive, can be pivotal in shaping history.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Get In The Way Of

What is the origin of get in the way of?

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Originating from common English usage, 'get in the way of' is derived from the literal sense of physically obstructing movement, evolving over time to metaphorically represent hindrances to progress or achievement.

Can get in the way of be used in formal and informal contexts?

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Yes, 'get in the way of' is versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts. It is suitable for speeches, writings, and casual conversations to describe obstructions affecting goals or actions.

What is the difference between get in the way of and hinder?

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While both mean to obstruct or create difficulties, 'get in the way of' is more idiomatic and often informal, whereas 'hinder' is a more formal term that implies interference with progress or development.

Related Phrasal Verbs

Explore more phrasal verbs in our dictionary:

stand in the way ofinterfere withblock outhold backhinder from
Browse All National Parks Phrasal Verbs
National Parks Phrasal Verbs - WeeklyCross
Alessandra Nóbrega
About the Author

Alessandra Nóbrega

History teacher who fell in love with English! This passion led me to specialize in languages and work on bilingual education projects. With 37 years in education, I believe learning should be meaningful – not just memorization.

Learn more about my journey



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