What are the definitions of “stand aside”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Leave a position so that someone else can take it.
The prime minister should STAND ASIDE and let a new leader head the party.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “stand aside”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb stand aside is to move away from a position or place, often to let someone else take over or to avoid being involved in a situation. For example, it can mean letting someone else take a leadership role or moving out of the way to let someone pass.
What are the different verb forms of “stand aside”?
| Root Verb | stand aside |
| Third Person Singular Present | stands aside |
| Present Participle | standing aside |
| Simple Past | stood aside |
| Past Participle | stood aside |
Example
Please stand aside so I can get through.
Example
He stands aside to let the ambulance pass.
Example
She is standing aside to let the new manager take over.
Example
The previous leader stood aside to let the new leader take charge.
Example
He had stood aside to let the younger generation lead the way.
What kind of phrasal verb is “stand aside”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“stand aside” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
The teacher stood aside to let the students enter the classroom.
Example
She stood aside to let the others take the lead.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“stand aside” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
The teacher stood aside to let the students enter the classroom.
Example
She stood aside to let the others take the lead.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “stand aside”?
Good things to know
Does “stand aside” have an informal or formal tone?
Stand aside is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as in a professional or political context.