"Getting in the way" is a phrase that refers to an object or a person obstructing a particular goal or activity. However, there are different words or phrases that can be used to convey this meaning, such as hindering, impeding, obstructing, blocking, thwarting, or stymieing. Each of these words has a slightly different connotation and usage, depending on the context in which they are used. For instance, hindering typically implies slowing down or delaying the progress, while obstructing indicates a complete barrier or obstruction to the task at hand. Regardless of the word used, the intention is to express a sense of interference or obstruction to the expected outcome.