give way

To yield to persistent persuasion.

“The mother gave way to her crying child.”

To collapse or break under physical stresses.

“After years of neglect, the rusty old bridge could give way at any time.”

To be followed, succeeded, or replaced by.

“Winter gave way to spring.”

To give precedence to other road users.

“At the crossing, cars must give way to pedestrians.”

To allow another person to intervene to make a point or ask a question whilst one is delivering a speech.

(as command to the crew) To begin rowing.