make way

Originally nautical.

make way (third-person singular simple present makes way, present participle making way, simple past and past participle made way)

1. (figuratively) To make progress.

   He was starting to make his way in the world.

2. (nautical, of a vessel) To progress through the water.
3. (transitive with for) To give place or step aside.

   Synonyms: give place, give way

   • 2008 September 15, Philip P. Pan, “In Wake of Georgian War, Russian Media Feel Heat”, in Washington Post, page A14:

     Many analysts say he remains Russia's paramount leader despite stepping down as president to make way for Medvedev

   • 2011 September 24, Aled Williams, “Chelsea 4 - 1 Swansea”, in BBC Sport‎:

     Chelsea made two changes to the side that lost at Manchester United, with Frank Lampard making way for John Obi Mikel and Nicolas Anelka starting ahead of Didier Drogba.

   • 2021 December 15, Robin Leleux, “Awards honour the best restoration projects: The Network Rail Community Award: Saltash and Stow”, in RAIL, number 946, page 58:

     Two entrants shared this award for their work on two quite different stations, but with the same purpose of bringing a redundant station building back into use for the benefit of the community, with the added result of conserving an historic building. Saltash Town Council bought Saltash station building after it had become very decrepit and 'an eyesore' - such that it was nearly pulled down to make way for housing.

• under way

make way

1. (nautical) an instruction to get out of the way of someone else, usually because they are carrying something and need a clear pathway. Compare with gangway.

• make headway