Understanding the Phrasal Verb "Put Away"
The English language is rich with phrasal verbs, and few are as versatile or as commonly used as "put away." Whether you are tidying up your home, discussing a habit, or even reading a suspenseful novel, you have likely encountered this term. While it often seems straightforward, "put away" carries a surprising range of meanings depending on the context. In this guide, we will explore how to use this phrase correctly and naturally in your daily conversations.
Definitions and Core Meanings
To master "put away," it helps to categorize its various uses. At its heart, the verb suggests moving something out of sight or out of current use. Here are the primary ways native speakers utilize the term:
- To store or tidy: This is the most common use. It refers to placing an object in its proper storage spot after you have finished using it. Example: "After the children finished playing, they were told to put away their toys."
- To consume food: In informal or slang usage, it describes eating a large amount of food. Example: "He was so hungry after the marathon that he could put away an entire pizza by himself."
- To Euthanize: In a more somber context, it is a euphemism for ending an animal's life painlessly, usually by a veterinarian. Example: "The vet advised us that we had to put away our elderly dog to end his suffering."
- To discard or dismiss: This refers to mentally letting go of an idea, a worry, or a phase of life. Example: "It is time for you to put away childish things and focus on your career."
- To incarcerate: In legal or criminal contexts, it means to send someone to prison. Example: "The judge decided to put the dangerous criminal away for twenty years."
Grammar Patterns: Separable Phrasal Verb
One of the most important rules for English learners to remember is that "put away" is a separable phrasal verb. This means that when you are using an object (a noun), you can place it either after the phrasal verb or between the two words.
Pattern 1: Verb + Particle + Object
"Please put away your notebooks before the exam starts."
Pattern 2: Verb + Object + Particle
"Please put your notebooks away before the exam starts."
Important Note: If you are using a pronoun (it, them, him), you must place the pronoun between the verb and the particle. You would say "put them away," but you should never say "put away them."
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even advanced learners sometimes stumble when using "put away." One common mistake is confusing "put away" with "put aside." While they are sometimes interchangeable, "put aside" usually refers to saving something for a specific future purpose (like money) or choosing to ignore a topic for the time being. "Put away," conversely, focuses more on physical storage or finality.
Another frequent error is using it in the wrong register. While saying someone "put away" a large meal is common in casual conversation, it might sound too informal or even disrespectful if used in a formal written report or a professional setting. Always consider your audience before using the idiomatic versions of the phrase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is "put away" the same as "clean up"?
Not exactly. "Cleaning up" is a general process of making a space tidy. "Putting away" is the specific action of taking an item and moving it to its permanent storage location (like a drawer or a closet).
Can I use "put away" for abstract things?
Yes. As seen in the example regarding "childish things," you can "put away" worries, fears, or bad habits. It signifies a definitive act of moving past a certain mindset.
What does it mean if someone says, "He was put away for life"?
In this context, "put away" is a synonym for being sent to prison. It is a common, though slightly informal, way to describe a long-term incarceration.
Are there any regional differences?
In British English, "put away" is used consistently in all the ways mentioned above. However, in American English, you might hear "put away" used more frequently regarding food consumption compared to other English dialects.
Conclusion
The phrasal verb "put away" is an essential tool in your English vocabulary. From the literal act of organizing a messy desk to the more figurative act of letting go of past worries, this phrase provides a natural way to describe moving things out of the immediate environment. By practicing the separable grammar rule and paying attention to the context, you will find yourself using "put away" with the confidence of a native speaker.