Run Away – Meaning and Examples
Sometimes people need to escape from difficult situations or leave quickly. In English, we say they run away. This idiom describes both physical escape and avoiding problems. It’s a common phrase in everyday conversations.
What Does “Run Away” Mean?
“Run away” means to escape from a place or situation, often quickly or secretly. It can also mean to avoid dealing with problems. Think of it like a child leaving home without telling anyone or someone avoiding a difficult conversation.
When to Use It
Use this idiom when talking about children or pets that leave home. Use it when someone avoids responsibilities or difficult conversations. Use it in stories about escapes or quick departures. It is a neutral phrase, though it often describes negative situations.
Example Sentences
- The dog ran away from home yesterday.
- Don’t run away from your problems—face them directly.
- The children threatened to run away if their parents said no.
- He ran away from the scene of the accident.
Mini Dialogue
Mother: “I’m so worried about our argument with Sarah.”
Father: “Don’t worry, teenagers sometimes threaten to run away. She’ll calm down.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Remember, this idiom implies escape or avoidance. It is not used for normal running or exercise.
❌ Don’t say: “I run away every morning for exercise.” (Use “go running” instead).
✅ Do say: “The prisoner tried to run away from jail.”
Practice Tip
Think about a problem you’ve been avoiding. Create a sentence like “I shouldn’t run away from this difficult conversation.” Saying it out loud helps you remember the idiom’s meaning.
Final Note
You now know how to use “run away” for both physical escapes and avoiding situations. This common phrase will help you describe escapes and avoidance behaviors accurately in English. Use it to talk about both literal and metaphorical running away!