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Meaning trap

get away

take a short holiday

To go somewhere for a short holiday or break, especially to relax or escape daily routines.

phrasal verbB2common

Don't mix these meanings

Same phrase, different job.

take a short holiday

To go somewhere for a short holiday or break, especially to relax or escape daily routines.

get away (escape)

Another meaning of 'get away' is 'escape'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.

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Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

  • We’re hoping to get away for a few days next month.travel
  • Many people try to get away during the summer to recharge and spend time with family.IELTS speaking

Fix the pattern

Pattern: get away (to/from somewhere)

WrongWe want to get away for holiday.

RightWe want to get away for a few days. / go away on holiday.

'Get away' takes a time phrase ('for a few days'), not 'for holiday'.

Patternget away (to/from somewhere)

Use it right

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff We are hoping to take a brief holiday in order to relax.

Natural We're hoping to get away for a few days.

'Get away' is the cosy phrase for a short break; 'take a brief holiday in order to relax' is a travel brochure.

Build natural chunks

Words that usually travel with it.

  • get away + break
    for the weekendfor a few daysfrom it allsomewhere warm

Don't confuse it

This sense is about relaxing or taking a break, not escaping danger.

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