away - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
away Word Meanings
- at a distance
- in another direction
- absent from a place
away Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
away Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əˈweɪ/
US
/əˈweɪ/
away Word Etymology
a- = away from + way = path. Originated from Old English and influenced by Germanic roots. Imagine walking down a path that branches off and leads you far from your current spot.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I set my hand on the chair and push it a little, then I step away. I shift my weight, keeping the rhythm of a small move as the space opens. I turn toward the door and move a few steps in a new direction. The room seems to thin at the doorway, and a soft away lingers where the chair used to be.
Real Context
Away is a versatile adverb signaling distance, direction, or absence. It can describe physical distance as in 'The shop is away from here' or indicate a movement away, as in 'look away from the screen'. It also covers being away from a place, as in 'They are away on vacation', or being away from a task, as in 'The problem is a ways away from a solution.' In everyday speech, you’ll hear phrases like 'go away', 'far away', or 'away from'. Learners often mix away with off, out, or from, which muddles whether you’re talking about position or movement.
Usage Reminders
- 1) Learn common collocations: away from, far away, go away
- 2) Distinguish distance from direction with clear examples
- 3) Practice with phrases like look away and move away
- 4) Notice differences between away and off in meaning
- 5) Use mock sentences to reinforce position vs movement
- 6) Listen for native usage in conversations and media
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing away with off, thinking it always means 'not here'
- Mixing up away from with from when indicating position
- Assuming away implies movement only, not distance
- Ignoring common collocations like far away and away from
- Using away in place of move or go without the right preposition
Thinking Differences
For English speakers, away focuses on distance or separation from a place; learners often overemphasize not being here and confuse with off/out, especially in tight sentences.
Learning Tips
- Practice using away with from in realistic sentences
- Listen for native phrases in media
- Create flashcards of common collocations
- Distinguish away from vs going away
- Record yourself using go away and stay away
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'away'?
A.Home
B.Apart
C.Far
D.Absent
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'away' correctly?
A.He always sits away from his friends during lunch.
B.She loves to away books in her free time.
C.The students ran away from the classroom.
D.I can't wait to away the new movie this weekend.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'away'?
A.Close
B.Aside
C.Nearby
D.Together
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'away'?
A.Present
B.Towards
C.Adjacent
D.Surrounding
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario involving the word 'away'?
A.She placed the book on the shelf and walked away.
B.The team worked around the clock to finish the project.
C.They enjoy spending time together in the park.
D.He always keeps his phone close by when he sleeps.
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