Away

Definition

Away is used as an adverb and adjective. As an adverb, it indicates movement to another place, at a distance, or out of sight. It can also signify a period of absence. As an adjective, it describes something as being at a distance or in a different place.

Parts of Speech

• Adverb
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American and British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈweɪ/
• Respelling: uh-WAY

Etymology

The word "away" originates from the Old English "onweg" or "aweg," meaning "on one's way" or "out of one's way." It is derived from the prefix "a-" meaning "on" or "at" and "way," indicating direction or path. The term has been used since the early Middle Ages to signify physical or metaphorical distance.

Derivatives

• Getaway (noun)
• Faraway (adjective)
• Awayness (noun)
• Takeaway (noun)
• Runaway (noun/adjective)

Synonyms

• Afar
• Elsewhere
• Apart

Antonyms

• Near
• Close
• Present

Usage

The term "away" is commonly used to describe movement from a current location to another, or the state of being absent. For example, "She moved away from the noise," or "He will be away on vacation next week."

Related Terms

• Absent: Not present in a place or situation.
• Distance: The amount of space between two points.
• Departure: The action of leaving, especially to start a journey.

Detailed Definitions

Adverb

• To or at a distance from a place: Indicates movement to another location.
  • Example: "She walked away from the building."
• Indicating absence from a place: Used to describe being gone or not present.
  • Example: "He will be away for a few days."
• Continuously or without interruption: Refers to doing something without stopping.
  • Example: "They worked away until the job was done."

Adjective

• Located at a distance or in a different place: Describes something that is not nearby.
  • Example: "The away team played an impressive game."