What are the definitions of “stay away”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Not come.
He said he didn't like them coming and wanted them to STAY AWAY.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “stay away”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb stay away is to not go near or avoid a person, place, or situation. It is often used as a warning or advice to keep a distance from something or someone that may be dangerous or unpleasant.
What are the different verb forms of “stay away”?
| Root Verb | stay away |
| Third Person Singular Present | stays away |
| Present Participle | staying away |
| Simple Past | stayed away |
| Past Participle | stayed away |
Example
Please stay away from the construction site for your safety.
Example
She stays away from negative people to maintain her positive mindset.
Example
He is staying away from the office because he is sick.
Example
They stayed away from the party because they didn't want to see their ex.
Example
I have stayed away from fast food for a month to improve my health.
What kind of phrasal verb is “stay 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
“stay 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
I told him to stay away from the dangerous area.
Example
She stayed away from the party because she was not feeling well.
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
“stay 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
I told him to stay away from the dangerous area.
Example
She stayed away from the party because she was not feeling well.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “stay away”?
Good things to know
Does “stay away” have an informal or formal tone?
Stay 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.
