What are the definitions of “walk away”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1To leave or abandon something or someone, especially in a situation where one has a choice.
Alternatively, they may walk away from a target with too much risk for their conservative tastes.
- 2To leave a situation or relationship, especially when it is difficult or not working well.
And which show will walk away with the most awards on the biggest night in the soap calendar?
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “walk away”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb walk away is to leave or abandon something or someone, especially in a situation where one has a choice. It can also mean leaving a difficult or unsuccessful situation or relationship.
What are the different verb forms of “walk away”?
| Root Verb | walk away |
| Third Person Singular Present | walks away |
| Present Participle | walking away |
| Simple Past | walked away |
| Past Participle | walked away |
Example
She decided to walk away from the toxic friendship.
Example
He walks away from arguments to avoid conflict.
Example
They are walking away from the deal because it's too risky.
Example
She walked away from the job offer after considering other options.
Example
He had walked away from the relationship when he realized it wasn't working.
What kind of phrasal verb is “walk 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
“walk 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
She walked away from the argument.
Example
He walked away from the toxic relationship.
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
“walk 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 walked away from the argument.
Example
He walked away from the toxic relationship.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “walk away”?
To leave a romantic or personal relationship, especially when it is difficult or not working well.
Example
She walked away from the relationship when she realized they were not compatible.
Good things to know
Does “walk away” have an informal or formal tone?
Walk away is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, such as business negotiations or legal discussions.
