Grammar fix
shy away from
avoid (something) because of fear, discomfort, or reluctance
to deliberately avoid doing something because you feel nervous, unsure, or unwilling, especially when it is difficult or unpleasant
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
- Many people shy away from discussing money matters with their friends.daily life
- Some students shy away from asking questions in class because they’re afraid of making mistakes, but participating actively is key to learning.IELTS speaking
Fix the pattern
Pattern: shy away from + noun/gerund
WrongHe shies away confrontation.
RightHe shies away from confrontation.
Always 'shy away FROM' something — don't drop 'from'.
Patternshy away from + noun/gerund
Use it right
Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.
'Shy away from' packs the reluctance and discomfort into the phrase; the paraphrase is wordy.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
shy away from + difficultyconfrontationresponsibilitythe truthhard questions
Don't confuse it
Unlike 'avoid', which is more general, 'shy away from' highlights reluctance or nervousness as the reason for not doing something. It does not mean to refuse directly or to physically move away.