getaway

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "getaway" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a place or situation that provides an escape or a vacation, often implying relaxation or adventure. Example: "We decided to book a weekend getaway to the mountains to unwind from our busy lives."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

The Economist

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

3 nights in the Lake District: from £420pp Nestled in the heart of the Lake District and set in 22 acres of its own country gardens, Gilpin Lodge makes an ideal bank holiday getaway.

The Guardian - Travel

Gorgeous sunsets, accompanied by fresh barbecued fish and local pisco make this a tranquil getaway that is only a one hour bus journey north of Valparaíso.

The Guardian - Travel

Murderers are never more vulnerable than when they are 'muddy or bloody', making their getaway.

The Guardian

For 18-year-old Lydia Pogu, her brush with Boko Haram ended with a dramatic getaway.

The Guardian

For skiers seeking new terrain, the Tatra (or Tatry) mountains offer an easy getaway, thanks to recently launched direct flights with Wizz Air from Luton to Poprad-Tatry (four times a week, from €20 one-way).

The Guardian - Travel

Both were marginal to begin with, but while Columbus sat mired in the depths of the standings, losing game after game and generally falling into complete disarray, the Blues packed their bags and made a quick getaway up the table.

The Guardian - Sport

Those featured on the Crimestoppers website, with photographs and descriptions, include James Hurley, the convicted killer of a police officer who made his getaway while being transferred from one prison to another, and Clifford Hobbs, who escaped on his way to court to face charges for a £1.25m security van heist.

The Guardian

CCTV footage showed how the man's bike became stuck under the car, which reversed and then drove back over the bike at speed as it made a getaway.

The Guardian

The inside is sumptuous, too, ideal for either a romantic getaway or a family holiday where the kids can make as much noise as they wish.

The Guardian - Travel

Sergeant Alex Vogt of New South Wales police traffic support group VIP cycles gave the waiting crowd something to watch as he went about his important work mustering cars for the royal getaway.

The Guardian

According to the official version, it was their carelessness in showing their faces to family members who witnessed the crime that facilitated their capture, as well as the recovery of their stolen getaway car.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "getaway" in the context of crime, ensure clarity by specifying what is being escaped from, for example, "the getaway car" or "a daring getaway from prison".

Common error

While "getaway" is versatile, avoid using it excessively when more precise terms like "vacation", "escape", or "retreat" would better convey your intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The term "getaway" primarily functions as a noun, denoting either a means of escape or a short vacation. As demonstrated by Ludwig, it can also function as an adjective, describing plans or vehicles related to an escape.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

The Economist

18%

Encyclopedia Britannica

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Academia

5%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "getaway" is a versatile term with multiple meanings, primarily functioning as a noun or, less commonly, as an adjective. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and indicates its use to describe both planned vacations and escapes, particularly in the context of crime. As evidenced by Ludwig, the phrase is frequently found in news media and publications like The Economist and Encyclopedia Britannica, suggesting a neutral register. For vacation contexts, consider alternatives such as "vacation" or "retreat" for greater precision. When referring to criminal scenarios, always use the idiomatic "getaway car" over alternatives like escape car.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Escape

Emphasizes the act of leaving a difficult or dangerous situation.

Vacation

Focuses on leisure and recreation during a specific period.

Holiday

Similar to "vacation" but often used in British English.

Respite

Highlights a temporary period of relief from something difficult.

Retreat

Suggests a deliberate withdrawal to a quiet or secluded place.

Break

A general term for a pause or interruption in activity.

Excursion

Implies a short journey or trip, often for pleasure.

Jaunt

Similar to "excursion", but with a more carefree connotation.

Sojourn

A temporary stay in a place.

Pilgrimage

A journey, often long, made for religious or spiritual reasons.

FAQs

How can I use "getaway" in a sentence?

"Getaway" can refer to a means of escape, the act of escaping, or a vacation. For example: "They needed a quick getaway from the city," or "The thieves made their getaway in a stolen car".

What can I say instead of "getaway" when referring to a vacation?

You can use alternatives like "vacation", "holiday", or "retreat" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "getaway car" or "escape car"?

"Getaway car" is the idiomatic and more common expression, particularly in the context of crime. "Escape car" is less frequently used but still understandable.

What's the difference between "getaway" and "escape"?

"Escape" generally refers to the act of fleeing from a dangerous or confining situation. "Getaway" can refer to the act of escaping, but it is also commonly used to describe a vacation or short trip for relaxation.