What does “AWOL” mean?
"AWOL" means that someone is absent from their duty or responsibility without permission or authorization.
What context can I use the in?
Example
The soldier went AWOL and was later found hiding in a nearby town.
Example
The employee was fired for going AWOL multiple times without any valid reason.
Example
The student was marked AWOL after missing several classes without notifying the teacher
Is “AWOL” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“AWOL” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “AWOL” effectively in context?
You can use "AWOL" to describe someone who is absent from their duty or responsibility without permission or authorization. Here are three distinct situations where you can use this phrase:
- 1Military
The soldier went AWOL and was later found hiding in a nearby town.
- 2Work
The employee was fired for going AWOL multiple times without any valid reason.
- 3Education
The student was marked AWOL after missing several classes without notifying the teacher.
Similar phrases to “AWOL”:
Go MIA
To go missing in action, similar to going *AWOL*
Example
The hiker went MIA and was later found by search and rescue teams.
Play hooky
To skip school or work without permission or authorization
Example
The students decided to play hooky and go to the beach instead.
No-show
To fail to attend or appear at a scheduled event or appointment
Example
The speaker was a no-show, leaving the audience disappointed.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “AWOL” come from?
The origin of the phrase "AWOL" can be traced back to the military. It stands for 'Absent Without Leave' and is used to describe soldiers who are absent from their duty or responsibility without permission or authorization. The term was first used in the United States military during World War II.
Is “AWOL” common in everyday conversation?
The phrase "AWOL" is commonly used in everyday conversation, especially in military contexts. However, it can also be used in other settings, such as work or education, to describe someone who is absent without permission.
What tone does “AWOL” have?
"AWOL" conveys a tone of disapproval or criticism. It implies that someone has neglected their duty or responsibility by being absent without permission.
Can “AWOL” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "AWOL" is more commonly used in informal settings, particularly in military or casual conversations. However, it can also be used in more formal contexts, such as official reports or disciplinary proceedings.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
The phrase "AWOL" is typically used as part of a sentence to describe someone's absence without permission. For example, 'The soldier went "AWOL" and was later found hiding in a nearby town.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'He went "AWOL"!' to imply someone's unauthorized absence.
