go away

/ɡoʊ əˈweɪ/phrasal verb
to leave a place or person

The dog went away when I shouted.

The dog left when I shouted.


informal

to leave a place or person, often because you are asked to or because you want to

The children were told to go away and play outside.

The children were asked to leave and play outside.

I need some time alone, so please go away.

I need some time alone, so please leave.

This phrase is often used to ask someone to leave or to describe someone leaving.

Collocations

go away quietlyto leave without making noise or causing troublego away for the weekendto leave for a short trip

Related Phrases

get awayphrasal verb
to escape or leave a place
go away with itphrase
to take something with you when you leave

Pro Tip

Politeness

Use 'go away' politely by adding 'please' or explaining why you want the person to leave.

Gold Rule

Context Matters

The phrase can be rude if used abruptly without explanation.

Word Origin

The phrase 'go away' is a combination of the verb 'go' and the adverb 'away,' both of which are Old English in origin. The phrase has been used in English for centuries to mean leaving a place or person.

Usage Notes

This phrase is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts. It can be polite or rude depending on the tone and context.

Word Breakdown

go
to move or travel
root
+
away
to a different place, often far from the current location
adverb
English Dictionary