What are the definitions of “file away”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Put a document in the correct place for storage in a filing system.
I FILED a copy of the letter AWAY for my records.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “file away”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb file away is to put a document in the correct place for storage in a filing system. It is often used when organizing papers or documents in an office or at home.
What are the different verb forms of “file away”?
| Root Verb | file away |
| Third Person Singular Present | files away |
| Present Participle | filing away |
| Simple Past | filed away |
| Past Participle | filed away |
Example
Please file away these documents in the cabinet.
Example
She files away all her receipts in a folder.
Example
He is filing away the invoices in alphabetical order.
Example
Yesterday, I filed away all the contracts in the drawer.
Example
The important documents have been filed away in a safe place.
What kind of phrasal verb is “file away”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“file away” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
She filed away the report in the folder.
Example
He filed the documents away in the cabinet.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“file away” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She filed away the report in the folder.
Example
He filed the documents away in the cabinet.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “file away”?
To remember or store information in one's memory.
Example
She filed away the important details from the meeting in her mind.
Good things to know
Does “file away” have an informal or formal tone?
File away is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is commonly used in office settings, as well as in everyday conversations when discussing organization or storage of documents.
