Translation guide
The English phrase 'give way' has several distinct meanings. It can mean to yield or collapse under pressure, to yield in traffic, to make concessions in an argument, or to be replaced by something newer. This guide organizes these meanings for learners.
To break, bend, or collapse because of weight or force.
Used when something collapses or crumbles, such as a building, slope, or structure.
大雨で崖が崩れた。
The cliff gave way in the heavy rain.
Used when something long and rigid, like a branch or pole, snaps under pressure.
強風で木の枝が折れた。
The tree branch gave way in the strong wind.
To allow other vehicles or pedestrians to go first.
The standard phrase for yielding the right of way.
交差点では歩行者に道を譲ってください。
Please give way to pedestrians at intersections.
More formal, often used in legal or official contexts.
緊急車両に優先権を譲らなければならない。
You must give way to emergency vehicles.
To stop resisting or to yield in a discussion or negotiation.
Metaphorically 'to bend', meaning to compromise or give in.
彼はなかなか折れなかった。
He wouldn't give way easily.
To make a concession, often in formal negotiations.
会社側は賃上げに譲歩した。
The company gave way on the pay raise.
To back down or retreat from a position.
To be superseded or succeeded by something else.
Passive form meaning 'to be replaced by'.
古い技術は新しいものに取って代わられた。
Old technology gave way to new.
Metaphorical use of 'yield the way', often for abstract things.
恐怖が安堵に道を譲った。
Fear gave way to relief.
The English phrase 'give way' cannot be directly translated word-for-word into Japanese. Always choose the expression that matches the specific meaning you intend.
彼は最後まで引き下がらなかった。
He didn't give way until the very end.