give away

/ɡɪv əˈweɪ/
phrasal verbIntermediatephrasal verb
What It Really Means
To reveal a secret or hidden information, often unintentionally.
Literal Meaning
To transfer possession of something to someone else.
Literal Breakdown
giveto transfer possession+awayindicates the direction of the action
Mental Image
The mental picture of transferring something to someone else, which can metaphorically represent revealing information.
When to Use
A person accidentally mentions a surprise party plan during a casual conversation, revealing the secret.
Cultural Note
The phrase is commonly used in English to describe both literal and figurative actions of giving or revealing.
informal

To distribute something for free, often as a promotional gesture or donation.

The charity gave away food to the homeless during the winter.

The charity distributed food to the homeless during the winter.

💡

This phrasal verb is commonly used in informal contexts, especially in marketing and charitable activities.

informal

To reveal a secret or hidden information, often unintentionally.

She accidentally gave away her surprise party plans in a casual conversation.

She unintentionally revealed her surprise party plans in a casual conversation.

💡

This meaning is often used in contexts where someone reveals something they intended to keep secret.

Collocations

give away freeto distribute something without chargegive away secretsto reveal hidden information

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

give upphrasal verb
to surrender or abandon something
give inphrasal verb
to yield or surrender to pressure

💡Pro Tip

Context Matters

The meaning of 'give away' changes based on the context. Pay attention to whether it's about distributing something or revealing information.

Gold Rule

Use Appropriately

Use 'give away' in informal contexts, especially when referring to free distribution or revealing secrets.

📖Word Origin

The phrase 'give away' combines the verb 'give' with the adverb 'away,' emphasizing the action of distributing or revealing something.

📝Usage Notes

The phrasal verb 'give away' can have different meanings depending on the context. It is important to pay attention to the context to understand the intended meaning.

Word Breakdown

give
to transfer possession of something
root
+
away
indicates the direction or manner of the action
adverb
English Dictionary