Differences between run away and turn away
Run away means to escape or flee from a place or situation, while turn away means to move one's face or body in the opposite direction, often to avoid something or someone.
Meanings and Definitions: run away vs turn away
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Run away
- 1Escape from people chasing you.
He RAN AWAY from his attackers.
- 2Leave home because of problems with other family members or to elope.
She RAN AWAY to avoid a forced marriage.
Turn away
- 1Not allow someone to enter a place.
The doorman TURNED him AWAY from the nightclub because he was wearing trainers.
Usage Examples: run away, turn away in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
run away
Example
The child ran away from the angry dog.
Example
She runs away whenever she sees a spider.
turn away
Example
The security guard turned away the fans without tickets.
Example
She turns away anyone who tries to enter without a reservation.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Run away
To get away from a dangerous or unpleasant situation.
Example
The prisoner managed to escape from the jail by digging a tunnel.
To run away quickly from a dangerous or threatening situation.
Example
The villagers had to flee their homes due to the approaching wildfire.
To run away suddenly and quickly, often out of fear or panic.
Example
The horse bolted when it heard the loud noise, throwing off its rider.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Turn away
To keep away from something or someone, often because of dislike or fear.
Example
She tried to avoid her ex-boyfriend at the party by staying in a different room.
To deliberately ignore or reject someone or something.
Example
The community shunned the businessman after he was caught in a fraud scandal.
To pay no attention to something or someone.
Example
He decided to ignore the negative comments and focus on his work instead.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “run”
- run on
- run off
- run around
- run against
- run through
Phrasal Verbs with “turn”
Phrasal Verbs with “away”
Differences in run away vs turn away: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: run away or turn away?
In daily conversation, people use run away more often than turn away. This is because run away is used for more urgent situations such as danger or fear. Turn 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, run away is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of run away and turn away
Run away and turn 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 run away and turn away
The tone of run away and turn away can differ based on context. Run away often carries a sense of urgency or fear, while turn away typically has a more neutral or passive tone, especially when referring to avoiding something or someone.