in the way

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in the way

1. (idiomatic) Obstructing, blocking, or hindering.

   I really wanted a clear photo of the president, but all the journalists were in the way.

   • 1955 July, R. S. McNaught, “"Foreign" Engine Workings”, in Railway Magazine, page 497:

     The pre-grouping railway managements were very chary about allowing other people's trains on their territory, and there were many instances where running powers granted by Act of Parliament were never actually excercised because of difficulties deliberately put in the way.

2. (dated) Around; present; able to be found.
   • 1850 September 14, [Charles Dickens], “Three “Detective” Anecdotes”, in Charles Dickens, editor, Household Words. A Weekly Journal., volume I, number 25, London: Office, […], →OCLC:

     First thing on the Monday morning, I went to the haberdasher's shop, opposite Mr. Trinkle's, the great upholsterer's in Cheapside. "Mr. Phibbs in the way?"

• in a way
• in one's way
• in the way of
• on the way