SpeakUp

Grammar fix

keep away

stay away

to avoid going near someone or something, or to not let someone go near it.

phrasal verbB1common

Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

  • You should keep away from that dog; it can be aggressive.daily life
  • In my opinion, it's important to keep away from unhealthy foods if you want to stay fit.IELTS speaking

Fix the pattern

Pattern: keep away (from someone/something)

WrongKeep away to the wet floor.

RightKeep away from the wet floor.

When you name what to avoid, use 'keep away FROM'; bare 'keep away' stands alone.

Patternkeep away (from someone/something)

Use it right

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff Please remain at a distance from the wet paint.

Natural Keep away — wet paint!

'Keep away' is the natural warning; 'remain at a distance' is stiff.

Build natural chunks

Words that usually travel with it.

  • keep away
    fromwellpleasestay

Don't confuse it

'Stay away' usually means you yourself do not go near, while 'keep away' can mean you or someone else should not go near.

Try it in Daily Speak →