What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
escape
Example
The prisoner managed to escape from jail. [escape: verb]
Example
I need to escape from this stressful situation. [escape: verb]
Example
The thief made his escape before the police arrived. [escape: noun]
flee
Example
The villagers had to flee their homes due to the approaching wildfire. [flee: verb]
Example
The suspect fled the scene of the crime before the police arrived. [fled: past tense]
Example
We need to flee this area before the hurricane hits. [flee: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Escape is more commonly used than flee in everyday language. Escape is a versatile word that can be used in a wide range of contexts, while flee is more specific and often used in situations involving danger or urgency.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between escape and flee?
Escape is generally considered more formal than flee. While escape can be used in both formal and informal contexts, flee is typically used in more informal settings and may sound too dramatic or intense in formal situations.