What are the definitions of “run away”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 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.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “run away”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb run away is to escape from a dangerous or unpleasant situation, often when someone is chasing you. It can also mean leaving home because of problems with family members or to elope.
What are the different verb forms of “run away”?
| Root Verb | run away |
| Third Person Singular Present | runs away |
| Present Participle | running away |
| Simple Past | ran away |
| Past Participle | run away |
Example
The child ran away from the angry dog.
Example
She runs away whenever she sees a spider.
Example
He is running away from his responsibilities.
Example
They ran away from the fire.
Example
The thief had run away before the police arrived.
What kind of phrasal verb is “run 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.)
Intransitive verb
“run away” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
The cat ran away when it saw the dog.
Example
He ran away from home when he was 16.
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
“run 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
The cat ran away when it saw the dog.
Example
He ran away from home when he was 16.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “run away”?
Good things to know
Does “run away” have an informal or formal tone?
Run away is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal situations. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and can also be used in more formal settings, depending on the context.
