edge away

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "edge away" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the action of gradually moving away from something or someone, often in a cautious or subtle manner. Example: "As the argument escalated, she decided to edge away from the heated discussion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

So, ASUS moved the keyboard and trackpad towards the edge, away from most of the heat — a double-edged sword of a move.

TechCrunch

See how the edge away.

The Guardian - Opinion

She began to edge away, standing down as chief executive.

The Guardian

It wouldn't be the same.' He thought it would take his edge away".

The New York Times

My solution was to edge away every time Cheney lumbered closer.

The New Yorker

Erdogan has begun to edge away from this centrist ground, giving Kilicdaroglu an opportunity.

The New York Times

Cut on a sturdy surface, moving the knife's edge away from your body.

The New York Times

Suliemann Benn squirts an edge away for four to third man.

The Guardian - Sport

Webber bravely kept Vettel honest for a long time, until the German finally began to edge away despite the conditions.

Independent

But the Dutchmen were also hoping to edge away from their own brief, impromptu dig of 2005.

The New Yorker

Some of his fellow Republicans in the legislature are beginning to edge away from his insistence that scrapping collective bargaining for state workers is non-negotiable.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "edge away" to describe a subtle or gradual movement away from something, whether physical or abstract, such as edging away from a conversation topic or a physical location.

Common error

Avoid using "edge away" when a more direct or forceful term like "retreat" or "flee" is more appropriate. "Edge away" implies a gentle, gradual movement, not a sudden escape.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "edge away" functions primarily as an intransitive verb, describing an action performed by a subject without directly affecting an object. Ludwig examples show its use in depicting a gradual movement or withdrawal.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

29%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "edge away" is a commonly used phrasal verb that describes a gradual or subtle movement away from something or someone. Ludwig AI indicates that it's grammatically correct and versatile, suitable for various contexts, particularly in news and media. When writing, remember that it implies a gentle retreat, not a sudden or forceful one. Alternatives like ""move away"" or ""step back"" can be used, but "edge away" conveys a more nuanced sense of caution or discomfort.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

move away

This alternative is more direct and less subtle about the movement.

step back

This alternative suggests a deliberate retreat, often from a conflict or difficult situation.

draw back

This alternative implies a cautious or hesitant withdrawal.

veer off

This alternative is typically used when changing direction, either physically or metaphorically.

recede

This alternative suggests a gradual retreat or decline.

drift away

This alternative suggests a slow, almost unintentional departure.

back off

This alternative is more assertive and often implies a response to a threat or pressure.

pull back

This alternative implies a strategic or tactical withdrawal.

shy away

This alternative is used when avoiding something due to fear or discomfort.

diverge

This alternative suggests moving in a different direction or following a different path.

FAQs

How can I use "edge away" in a sentence?

You can use "edge away" to describe gradually moving away from something or someone, often cautiously or subtly. For example, "As the argument escalated, she decided to "move away" from the heated discussion."

What are some alternatives to "edge away"?

Alternatives include "move away", "step back", or "draw back", depending on the context and the nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "edge away" instead of "retreat"?

"Edge away" is suitable when the movement is gradual and subtle, while "retreat" implies a more decisive and often strategic withdrawal. Use "edge away" when the situation does not require a prompt or forceful action.

Is "edge away" considered formal or informal?

"Edge away" is generally considered neutral in register and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, it is more commonly found in descriptive writing or narrative contexts.