shy away from
B2 neutral inseparable transitive
In simple words
To stay away from something because it scares you or makes you feel uncomfortable.
Meanings
1 B2
idiomatic
neutral
To avoid a topic, situation, or action because it feels uncomfortable, risky, or frightening.
"The senator shied away from answering questions about the scandal."
"We should never shy away from the hard questions."
— Barack Obama, various campaign speeches, 2008
Grammar: inseparable
2 B2
idiomatic
neutral
To avoid taking on a responsibility or challenge due to self-doubt or timidity.
"Don't shy away from leadership roles just because you feel inexperienced."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Very commonly used in journalism and formal writing to describe institutions, leaders, or organizations avoiding difficult topics. Also used of personal reluctance. More specific and common than 'shy away' alone.
Commonly used with
confrontation controversy commitment challenge responsibility publicity
Forms
Base
shy away from
I/you/we/they
3rd person
shies away from
he/she/it
Past simple
shied away from
yesterday
Past participle
shied away from
have + pp
-ing form
shying away from
continuous
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