What are the definitions of “tick away”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Pass ( of time ).
The last few seconds TICKED AWAY and the team couldn't come back.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “tick away”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb tick away is the passing of time, usually referring to a clock or timer. It is often used to describe a situation where time is running out or when someone is waiting for something to happen.
What are the different verb forms of “tick away”?
| Root Verb | tick away |
| Third Person Singular Present | ticks away |
| Present Participle | ticking away |
| Simple Past | ticked away |
| Past Participle | ticked away |
Example
The seconds tick away as we wait for the bus to arrive.
Example
Time ticks away while we sit in the waiting room.
Example
The clock is ticking away as the deadline approaches.
Example
The minutes ticked away during the boring meeting.
Example
The hours had ticked away before we realized how late it was.
What kind of phrasal verb is “tick 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
“tick 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 clock ticked away as we waited.
Example
Time ticked away while we were having fun.
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
“tick 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 clock ticked away as we waited.
Example
Time ticked away while we were having fun.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “tick away”?
Good things to know
Does “tick away” have an informal or formal tone?
Tick away is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal writing or speeches.
