Differences between back away and take away
Back away means to move backward slowly and carefully, especially to create distance from something or someone. Take away means to remove something from a place or person.
Meanings and Definitions: back away vs take away
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Back away
- 1Retreat Retreat or go backwards. or go
The crowd BACKED AWAY when the man pulled a knife.
Take away
- 1Remove.
The police TOOK the protestors AWAY.
Usage Examples: back away, take away in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
back away
Example
When the dog started barking, I backed away slowly.
Example
She backs away when she sees a spider.
take away
Example
Please take away the dirty dishes from the table.
Example
She takes away the toys after the children finish playing.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Back away
To withdraw or move back from a situation or conflict.
Example
The soldiers were ordered to retreat after facing heavy enemy fire.
To remove oneself from a situation or group.
Example
He decided to withdraw from the competition due to personal reasons.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Take away
To take something away from a place or person.
Example
The teacher had to remove the distracting object from the student's desk.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “back”
Phrasal Verbs with “take”
Phrasal Verbs with “away”
Differences in back away vs take away: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: back away or take away?
In daily conversation, people use take away more often than back away. This is because take away is used for more daily tasks and routines such as taking food to go or removing an object from a room. Back away is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about creating distance from something or someone. So, while both phrases are used, take away is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of back away and take away
Back away and take away are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of back away and take away
The tone of back away and take away can differ based on context. Back away often carries a cautious or fearful tone when related to creating distance from something or someone, while take away typically has a practical and casual tone, especially when referring to removing objects or taking food to go.
