"in my way" vs "on my way"

Both "in my way" and "on my way" are correct, but they are used in different contexts. "On my way" is the more common and idiomatic phrase, meaning that someone is currently traveling to a destination. "In my way" is used to indicate that something is obstructing or blocking someone's path.

Last updated: March 23, 2024 • 1383 views

This phrase is correct but is used in a different context than "on my way." It means that something is obstructing or blocking someone's path.

""in my way""

This phrase is used to indicate that something is physically blocking or obstructing someone's path or progress.

Examples:

There was a fallen tree in my way, so I had to find another route.
Please move your bag, it's in my way.
Her negative attitude is always in my way when I try to accomplish something.
The construction work was in my way, so I couldn't get to the store on time.
Don't let fear get in your way of pursuing your dreams.

Show examples from the web [+]

It just depends on how much "way" you can handle.
- About these things the "way" is neither mine or yours.
But I don't ever want to "lose my way" like he said you did.
"Going both ways" in football means playing offense and defense.
The spoken "way" is not "way"
She wrote "no way" on both our cappuccinos.
I like her "the way" better.
How come you don't know "My Way"?
Chevy graphics people keep telling me there's a "Chevy way" of doing things.
At least not yet. I said, "No way".
They have struck a right balance between both extremes and I would advocate - to use Mr Swoboda's term - that "third way" should be applied to the railways in Europe.
- Then what do you mean by "in a different way"?
- We just like the way "LLC" sounds.
Dairy cooperative "The October Way"
For "Coral Way Marina" in Miami.
l've taken the liberty of bringing "Our Way",...
What do you mean, "no way"?
To me, the name "Milky Way" sounds like something... kind of comforting, sweet, you know... a candy bar, that sort of thing.
That is definitely not "the way"!
What do you mean "No way"?

Alternatives:

blocking my path
obstructing my progress
hindering me
impeding my movement
standing in my way

This phrase is correct and commonly used to indicate that someone is currently traveling to a destination.

""on my way""

This phrase is used to inform others that you are currently en route to a particular place or destination.

Examples:

I'm on my way to the store.
Sorry I'm late, but I'm on my way now.
She called to say she's on her way home.
We'll be there soon, we're on our way.
Don't start the meeting without me, I'm on my way.

Show examples from the web [+]

And by "on my way," I mean right across the alley where I can see everything.
Levon Dalton's sister in Mobile just got a text saying "On my way."
Let's start with the Butlers. Here's an example of one: "On my way." Anybody ever written, "On my way?"
The last I heard from you was, "I'm on my way."
"As I went on my way"Gossamer threads spun from bush to bush like barricades
She wrote "no way" on both our cappuccinos.
It just depends on how much "way" you can handle.
- About these things the "way" is neither mine or yours.
But I don't ever want to "lose my way" like he said you did.
The spoken "way" is not "way"
I like her "the way" better.
How come you don't know "My Way"?
Chevy graphics people keep telling me there's a "Chevy way" of doing things.
At least not yet. I said, "No way".
They have struck a right balance between both extremes and I would advocate - to use Mr Swoboda's term - that "third way" should be applied to the railways in Europe.
- We just like the way "LLC" sounds.
Dairy cooperative "The October Way"
l've taken the liberty of bringing "Our Way",...
What do you mean, "no way"?
To me, the name "Milky Way" sounds like something... kind of comforting, sweet, you know... a candy bar, that sort of thing.

Alternatives:

en route
heading to
coming
approaching
making my way

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"in my way" vs "on my way"

""in my way""

""on my way""

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