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Phrasal verbs "stand aside" vs "stand down"

Differences between stand aside and stand down

Stand aside means to move out of the way or to not get involved in a situation, while stand down means to withdraw or cancel an order or command.

Meanings and Definitions: stand aside vs stand down

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Stand aside

  • 1Leave a position so that someone else can take it.

    The prime minister should STAND ASIDE and let a new leader head the party.

Stand down

  • 1Leave a job or position so that someone else can take it.

    The minister announced her intention to STAND DOWN at the next election.

  • 2Finish being asked questions in a court.

    The judge told the witness to STAND DOWN after the questioning.

Usage Examples: stand aside, stand down in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

stand aside

Example

Please stand aside so I can get through.

Example

He stands aside to let the ambulance pass.

stand down

Example

The general decided to stand down after many years of service.

Example

The CEO stands down next month, and a new leader will take over.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Stand aside

step aside

To move out of the way or make room for someone or something.

Example

He asked the group to step aside so he could see the painting better.

keep out of it

To not get involved in a situation or conflict.

Example

She decided to keep out of it and let her colleagues handle the disagreement.

stay clear

To avoid getting involved or interfering in a situation.

Example

He warned his friend to stay clear of the dangerous area and wait for him to arrive.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Stand down

retract an order

To withdraw or cancel an order or instruction previously given.

Example

The manager decided to retract the order to work overtime and give the employees a break.

cancel a mission

To abandon or call off a planned operation or task.

Example

The general had to cancel the mission due to unfavorable weather conditions.

withdraw a request

To revoke or retract a previously made request or demand.

Example

She had to withdraw her request for a raise after learning about the company's financial situation.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Differences in stand aside vs stand down: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: stand aside or stand down?

In everyday conversation, people use stand aside more often than stand down. This is because stand aside is used for more common situations such as letting someone pass or stepping away from a situation. Stand down is less common and is mainly used in military or official contexts. So, while both phrases are used, stand aside is more common in daily conversations.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of stand aside and stand down

Stand aside and stand down are both formal phrases often used in official or military contexts. They are suitable for formal interactions with colleagues, superiors, or officials. In informal settings like casual conversations with friends and family, using alternative expressions can convey a more natural tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of stand aside and stand down

The tone of stand aside and stand down can differ based on context. Stand aside often carries a polite or respectful tone when related to moving out of the way or not interfering, while stand down typically has a serious or authoritative tone, especially when referring to withdrawing orders or commands.

stand aside & stand down: Synonyms and Antonyms

Stand aside

Synonyms

Stand down

Antonyms

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