meanings of "in my way" and "in the way"

English as a Second Language English Vocabulary, Grammar and Idioms
1

Dear teachers,

Please tell me the meanings of “in my way” and “in the way” in:

  1. You are in my way.

  2. The man is in the way of the bus.

Thanks
Quoc

2

Hi,

If you are blocking somebody’s way it means that they cannot proceed or go forward because you are standing in the middle of their path.

Alan

3

Hi

Can I say: ‘An opportunity had (has?) been put(?) in my way.’
?

4

Hi Tamara

I wouldn’t. The word “opportunity” suggests something positive and “in my way” suggests something negative (an impediment).

But you could say “An opportunity came my way.”

Amy

5

Hi Tamara,

The expression nearest to what you are asking is: An opportunity/offer/bargain has been put my way. That means someone has done you a favour by making sure that you benefit from this opportunity/offer/bargain.

Alan

6

Hi Alan,

Without preposition at all? :shock:
OK. Thanks.

But how can I surely use the pattern ‘put ’ if I have a freedom to omit and there is no preposition to indicate “the place” (to distinguish it from a subject to be put).

7

Hi Tamara,

Does sound a bit contracted, I agree but it stands up. I’m racking my brains to find a similar example but so far no luck.

Alan