Meaning & use

one-way street

noun·Everyday

A street on which vehicles may travel in only one direction.

See it in a sentence

We got a ticket for accidentally driving the wrong way down a one-way street.

The city converted the narrow avenue into a one-way street to ease congestion.

A note on using this word

Often used figuratively for a relationship or arrangement that benefits only one side, as in 'their friendship felt like a one-way street.'

Words with a similar meaning

This term is best learned through its definition and examples.

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Another way to use it

2. noun

A relationship or situation in which only one side gives or benefits, figuratively.

He complained that the partnership had become a one-way street favoring the larger company.

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