Differences between keep away and put away
Keep away means to stay at a distance from something or someone, while put away means to store something in its proper place.
Meanings and Definitions: keep away vs put away
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Keep away
- 1Don't allow someone near something.
Medicines should always be KEPT AWAY from children.
Put away
- 1Put something back in the correct place.
He PUT the dictionary BACK on the shelf after he'd finished the crossword.
- 2Put someone in prison.
The judge PUT him AWAY for ten years for robbery.
Usage Examples: keep away, put away in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
keep away
Example
Please keep away from the construction site.
Example
She keeps away from the busy streets when walking her dog.
put away
Example
Please put away your toys when you're done playing.
Example
She puts away her clothes after doing laundry.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Keep away
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Put away
tidy up
To clean and organize a space by putting things in their proper place.
Example
She spent the afternoon tidying up her room and putting away her clothes.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “keep”
Phrasal Verbs with “put”
Phrasal Verbs with “away”
Differences in keep away vs put away: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: keep away or put away?
In daily conversation, people use put away more often than keep away. This is because put away is used for more daily tasks and routines such as cleaning up or organizing things. Keep away is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about avoiding something or someone. So, while both phrases are used, put away is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of keep away and put away
Keep away and put away are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of keep away and put away
The tone of keep away and put away can differ based on context. Keep away often carries a warning or protective tone when related to avoiding danger or harm, while put away typically has a practical and organized tone, especially when referring to tidying up or storing items.
