tuck it away

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tuck it away" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to mean to store something safely or to hide it for future use. Example: "After reviewing the documents, I decided to tuck it away in a secure folder for later reference."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

Once you toss that signed and sealed letter in the trash (or tuck it away in a drawer), you'll find its message has lost some of its power.

HuffPost

We thank them, we tuck it away in the kitchen.

The New Yorker

On Thursday, Mr. Darden brought his family's smoky possessions to Tuck It Away on Webster Avenue.

The New York Times

I figured that if I could tuck it away, my grief wouldn't bleed into other areas of my life.

The Washington Post

"At least I didn't have to go to a high floor," Mr. Darden told a Tuck It Away employee.

The New York Times

"Being a city dweller, I have a particular sensitivity for small spaces and understand that there are not always places to tuck it away".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

I'd tucked it away.

The Guardian

I finished it and handed it to Ms. Pescosolido, who tucked it away.

The New York Times

But we know that Hannah has carefully taken it in and tucked it away.

The New Yorker

Brewster thought it was hilarious, Klitschko fumed and tucked it away with a nervous laugh.

Independent

After each visit, she tucked it away, to avoid unwanted attention.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "tuck it away" when you want to emphasize the act of concealing or storing something, either physically or mentally, for future use or to keep it safe. For example, "I always tuck my important documents away in a safe deposit box."

Common error

Avoid using "tuck it away" when a more direct verb like "store", "hide", or "save" would be more appropriate. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound less precise. Don't say "I tucked the file away" when you simply mean "I saved the file."

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "tuck it away" functions primarily as a transitive verb, requiring a direct object ("it") to complete its meaning. It indicates the action of placing something out of sight or storing it for later use, aligning with examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Wiki

16%

HuffPost

12%

Less common in

The Guardian

7%

Forbes

3%

Independent

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "tuck it away" is a common and versatile phrasal verb used to describe the act of storing or concealing something, whether physically or mentally. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and provides numerous examples from reliable sources demonstrating its widespread use across various contexts, primarily in news and media. While generally neutral in tone, it can be replaced with alternatives like "stow it" or "put it aside" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the intended meaning of safekeeping or future retrieval to avoid any ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stow it

This alternative is more concise and often used in the context of placing something in a designated storage space.

put it aside

This alternative is a more general term for setting something apart, either physically or mentally, for later use or consideration.

stash it

This alternative suggests concealing something, often quickly or secretly.

hide it

This alternative emphasizes concealing something from sight or discovery.

put it in storage

This alternative specifies placing something in a designated storage area.

set it aside for later

This alternative emphasizes the intention of using or dealing with something at a future time.

put it in safekeeping

This alternative highlights the act of placing something in a secure location for protection.

shelve it

This alternative suggests postponing consideration or action on something.

lay it aside

This alternative is a more formal way of saying "put it aside", often implying a temporary setting aside.

consign it

This alternative is related to assign something to a place.

FAQs

How can I use "tuck it away" in a sentence?

You can use "tuck it away" to describe putting something in a safe or hidden place, like "I always "tuck it away" in my drawer". It can also mean to store something for future use, such as an idea or memory.

What does "tuck it away" mean?

The phrase "tuck it away" generally means to put something in a place where it won't be easily found, either for safekeeping or to keep it out of sight. It can also mean to store information or memories for later use.

What are some alternatives to "tuck it away"?

Some alternatives to "tuck it away" include "put it aside", "stow it", "hide it", "stash it", or "put it in storage". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "tuck it away" in formal writing?

While "tuck it away" is widely understood, it can sometimes sound informal. In formal writing, consider using alternatives like "store it", "archive it", or "consign it" for a more professional tone.