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stay away

A2 neutral intransitive
In simple words

To not go to a place or not be near a person

Literal meaning: To stay (remain) away from something — maintaining physical distance

Meanings

1 A2 neutral

To avoid going near a place, person, or thing

"The police told residents to stay away from the flooded area."

2 A2 neutral

To not attend or not return to a place

"She stayed away from the reunion because she was nervous about seeing her ex."

Usage notes

Very common in everyday English. Can be used as a command (Stay away from him!) or a description (She stayed away from the party). Often followed by 'from' plus the person or place to be avoided.

Commonly used with

from danger trouble someone drugs school area

Forms

Base
stay away
I/you/we/they
3rd person
stays away
he/she/it
Past simple
stayed away
yesterday
Past participle
stayed away
have + pp
-ing form
staying away
continuous

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Synonyms

keep away avoid keep one's distance steer clear keep clear

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