gangway

Everyday

1. A movable bridge or ramp for walking between a ship and the land. tree →
2. (UK) A passage between rows of seats, in a theatre, bus or plane; in the US an aisle. tree →
3. (interjection, informal) «Gangway!» means «Move out of the way, I'm coming through!» tree →

In the lessons

Used at ports and on ships, and in the UK for passages in cinemas and theatres. In stories sailors run up the gangway, and people shout «Gangway!» when carrying something big. In safety lessons, gangways must be kept clear so people can get out in an emergency.

Examples

• The passengers walked up the gangway onto the ship. tree →
• Please keep the gangways clear. tree →
• «Gangway!» shouted the porter, pushing a trolley of bags. tree →
• The sailors pulled up the gangway and the ship set sail. tree →
• The Sea Rat strode down the gangway into the port. tree →
• Don't leave your bag in the gangway on the bus. tree →

Note

Countable. In US English the passage between seats is «aisle». «Gangway!» as a shout is informal and friendly but urgent. Also «gangplank» for a simple board between ship and shore.