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.

2. (dated) Around; present; able to be found.
   • 1841, Charles Dickens, Three Detective Anecdotes:

     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