runs away from

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "runs away from" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that is fleeing or escaping from a situation, person, or place. Example: "When faced with confrontation, he often runs away from the problem instead of addressing it directly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

Ball runs away from him.

The Guardian - Sport

Everyone runs away from the profession.

The Guardian

Money runs away from trouble and instability".

The New York Times

Aviva then runs away from home.

The Guardian - Film

She runs away from him and he follows after her.

The New Yorker

A girl runs away from her pimp, breaks her leg.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

Running away from field.

The New York Times

Or run away from them.

The New York Times

I ran away from Piaf.

Independent

I ran away from London.

Independent

Running away from us.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "runs away from" to describe a physical escape, or metaphorically to describe avoiding a responsibility or issue. For instance, "He runs away from conflict".

Common error

Avoid using "runs away from" in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more sophisticated synonyms like "flees", "escapes", or "retreats" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

Phrasal verbs like "runs away from" function as verbs that include a preposition or adverb that modifies the verb’s meaning. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's grammatical correctness, and the examples illustrate its use in describing physical escapes and metaphorical avoidance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

4%

Science

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrasal verb "runs away from" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe escaping or avoiding a situation, person, or responsibility. Ludwig AI verifies the phrase's correctness and provides a multitude of examples across various contexts. While generally neutral in tone, it is more appropriate for informal or general writing than for highly formal or academic pieces, where synonyms like "flees from" or "escapes from" might be preferred. When using "runs away from", consider whether you intend to describe a physical escape or a metaphorical avoidance of something.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

flees from

Implies a more urgent or panicked escape.

escapes from

Suggests a successful avoidance of a dangerous or unpleasant situation.

evades

Highlights skillful dodging or escaping of something.

avoids

Focuses on deliberately keeping away from someone or something.

dodges

Implies quick and nimble avoidance.

steers clear of

Emphasizes deliberately avoiding something to prevent problems.

shies away from

Indicates a reluctance or hesitation to approach something.

retreats from

Implies withdrawing from a confrontation or challenge.

turns away from

Suggests a deliberate rejection or abandonment of something.

withdraws from

Indicates a formal or deliberate removal from a situation or commitment.

FAQs

How can I use "runs away from" in a sentence?

You can use "runs away from" to describe someone physically escaping a place or situation, or metaphorically avoiding a problem or responsibility. For example: "The child runs away from home after an argument" or "The politician always runs away from difficult questions".

What's a more formal way to say "runs away from"?

For a more formal tone, consider using alternatives like "flees from", "escapes from", or "retreats from", depending on the context.

Is it correct to use "runs away from" in academic writing?

While grammatically correct, "runs away from" might be considered too informal for academic writing. Opt for more formal synonyms like "avoids" or "evades" to maintain a professional tone.

What's the difference between "runs away from" and "avoids"?

"Runs away from" often implies a more immediate or physical escape, while "avoids" suggests a deliberate effort to keep away from something. For example, someone might "run away from" danger, but "avoid" a difficult conversation.