running away

USAGE SUMMARY

"running away" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you are attempting to describe someone or something that is escaping or fleeing from a particular situation. For example: "The children were running away from the mean dog."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Merle began running away.

The New Yorker

Running away from field.

The New York Times

People are running away!

Independent

This is running away".

The New York Times - Science

"People started running away".

The New York Times

"I wasn't running away.

The Washington Post

Whole families were running away.

The New York Times - Magazine

And it was running away.

The New Yorker

Instead, they're just running away.

The New York Times

He's running away right now.

The New York Times

They are running away.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a situation where someone is actively avoiding responsibility or commitment, consider using "running away" to convey a sense of evasion or lack of accountability.

Common error

Avoid using "running away" too literally in contexts where a strategic retreat or planned departure is more accurate. Ensure the connotation aligns with the intended meaning of evasion or escape.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "running away" primarily functions as a verb phrase, often acting as a present participle describing an ongoing action of escaping or fleeing. Ludwig examples show its use in both literal and figurative contexts. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "running away" is a versatile verb phrase widely used to describe the act of escaping, whether literally or figuratively. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across various contexts. It's predominantly found in news and media, and wiki sources, with a neutral register suitable for diverse audiences. When employing this phrase, consider the subtle differences in meaning compared to alternatives like "fleeing" or "escaping", and avoid overly literal interpretations in situations requiring a more nuanced description of departure.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fleeing

Implies a rapid departure from danger or an undesirable situation; emphasizes the act of escaping.

escaping

Focuses on breaking free from confinement or a difficult circumstance.

taking flight

Suggests a sudden and often panicked departure; more figurative.

absconding

Indicates a secretive departure, often to avoid legal consequences.

evading

Implies skillfully avoiding something or someone, often with intent.

making off

Suggests a hasty departure, often with something stolen.

departing hurriedly

Emphasizes the speed and urgency of leaving.

withdrawing

Suggests a more controlled or strategic retreat.

retreating

Implies moving back from a position, often in response to pressure.

avoiding

Indicates staying away from something or someone to prevent a confrontation.

FAQs

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

You can use "running away" to describe someone who is physically fleeing a situation, such as "The child was running away from the bully", or figuratively, like "He's running away from his problems".

What are some synonyms for "running away"?

Alternatives for "running away" include "fleeing", "escaping", or "absconding", each carrying slightly different connotations.

Is it always negative to say someone is "running away"?

While often negative, implying evasion, "running away" can sometimes describe a necessary escape from a harmful situation. The context determines its connotation.

What's the difference between "running away" and "walking away"?

"Running away" suggests a hurried, possibly panicked, escape, while "walking away" implies a more controlled and deliberate departure.