What is walk away? How to use in English

Discover the meaning of walk away in English, its pronunciation, and how to use it correctly in real-life situations. See examples and easy memorization tips.

Definition & pronunciation of walk away

walk awayphrasal verb

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Where does the word walk away come from?

The phrase "walk away" originated in English in the late 19th century. It is a phrasal verb composed of the word "walk," which denotes moving one's legs to travel, and the preposition "away," which indicates moving in a particular direction, typically further from a particular location or person. The phrase "walk away" is a figurative expression that means leaving a situation, often with the intention of avoiding further involvement or conflict. It can also indicate a spontaneous and deliberate decision to detach oneself from a particular circumstance, person, or commitment. The phrase has gained popularity over the years as a way to express one's unwillingness or inability to engage in a further interaction, particularly in situations where there is perceived danger, loss, or difficulty. It has become a colloquial expression in various contexts, from legal disputes to interpersonal relationships, to indicate a choice to remove oneself voluntarily from an unresolvable or dissatisfying situation. Overall, "walk away" encapsulates an assertive and empowered approach to managing challenging circumstances, affirming individual agency, and prioritizing self-preservation over external obligations.

Example of vocabulary walk awaynamespace

  • John grew frustrated with his coworker's constant interruptions, so he walked away from his desk to clear his head.
  • After a heated argument with her partner, Sarah packed her bags and walked away from their relationship.
  • The police warned the protesters to disperse, but they refused and instead, walked away peacefully.
  • When the interviewer asked a difficult question, the candidate paused for a moment before walking away from the podium.
  • Potential buyers walked away from the real estate agent's presentation, unimpressed with the property's high price.

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