1
general::
Phrase(s): *out of the way 1. [and] *out of someone’s way; *out of the road
Lit. not blocking or impeding the way. (*Typically: get ~; get someone or something ~; move someone or something ~.) • Please get out of my way. • Would you please get your foot out of the way? 2. and *out of one’s way Fig. not along the way; not included in the proposed route. (*Typically: be ~.) • I’m sorry, but I can’t give you a ride home. It’s out of my way. • That route is out of our way. 3. Fig. completed; finished. (*Typically: be ~; get something ~; have something ~.) • I’m sure glad to have that test out of the way. • I’ll be happy to have all this medical stuff out of the way.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs
2
general::
1. Not obstructing, hindering, or interfering, as in This chair is out of the way now, so you won't trip. This phrase Also appears in get out of the (or one's)way, as in Would you please get your coat out of the way? or Get your car out of my way. [Mid-1500s] 2. Taken care of, disposed of, as in I'm glad we got these details out of the way. 3. In a remote location, as in This restaurant is a little out of the way. [Mid-1300s] 4. Unusual, remarkable, as in It was out of the way for him to praise his staff. [Second half of 1500s] 5. Amiss, in error, improper, as in The security guard checked all the locks and saw nothing out of the way. [Early 1200s] Also see GO OUT OF ONE'S WAY.
American Heritage Idioms