[give] way - Definition & Meaning

[give] way

to finally agree to something, especially after much resistance or arguing

After hours of negotiation, they finally gave way and agreed to the terms of the contract.
The protesters refused to give way, determined to make their voices heard.
The determined resistance finally made the invading army give way, leading to their retreat.
In a negotiation, sometimes it's necessary to give way on certain points to reach an agreement.
The peaceful protesters refused to give way to the aggressive police tactics.

Synonyms:

to move aside in order to make space or allow someone or something to pass

Synonyms:

to break down under physical or metaphorical pressure

The resistance of the defending team gave way, allowing the opponent to score a goal.
The bridge's supports couldn't bear the weight, causing it to give way and collapse into the river.
The company's financial stability began to give way as it faced mounting debt and losses.
After years of wear and tear, the old chair finally gave way, and its legs snapped.
Under immense pressure, his composure gave way, and he burst into tears.

Synonyms:

to fail to perform or function as expected

After years of faithful service, the old car's engine finally gave way, and it couldn't start anymore.
The electrical system in the house gave way during the storm, leaving us without power for days.
The overworked laptop's battery gave way, and it shut down unexpectedly.
Due to a mechanical issue, the elevator gave way, and passengers were temporarily trapped inside.
The dishwasher started leaking, and it gave way, causing a mess in the kitchen.

Synonyms:

to be replaced by something considered to be superior, more advanced, or more cost-effective

Traditional film cameras gave way to digital cameras due to their convenience and improved image quality.
Landline telephones have given way to smartphones as the primary means of communication for many people.
Printed newspapers are gradually giving way to online news platforms as digital media becomes more prevalent.
Horse-drawn carriages gave way to automobiles as a faster and more efficient mode of transportation.
Vinyl records initially gave way to cassette tapes and later to digital music formats like CDs and MP3s.

to lose control over one's feelings and to allow them to take over

After the stressful day at work, he gave way to his frustration and yelled at his colleague.
She tried to remain composed, but her fear gave way to panic when she saw the spider.
The news of her success made her give way to tears of joy.
He usually keeps a calm demeanor, but the pressure of the situation made him give way to anger.
The touching farewell speech made many in the audience give way to tears.

to pause during a speech and let someone else speak or ask a question

During the presentation, the speaker decided to give way to the audience for questions after each major section.
During the town hall meeting, the mayor gave way to the residents to voice their concerns about the new development project.
In the classroom discussion, the teacher gave way to the students to share their thoughts on the assigned reading.
During the conference presentation, the speaker gave way to the moderator to introduce the next speaker.
During the team meeting, the manager gave way to the team members to provide their input on the new project proposal.

to put more effort into rowing

As they neared the buoy, the coach shouted for the crew to give way, prompting them to increase their stroke rate.
As we approached the shore, the captain shouted, 'Give way!'and the crew immediately began rowing to guide the boat to safety.
Feeling the pressure from their opponents, the rowers gave way with determination, propelling their boat forward.
Hearing the coxswain's command to give way, the rowers synchronized their strokes and propelled the boat with renewed energy.