Phrasal verb
put away
To put something back in its proper place after using it.
Meanings
to return something to its usual place; to tidy by storing it
to store something for future use
to stop using or holding something and set it aside
Definition
"Put away" most commonly means to return something to where it belongs so a space is tidy. It can also mean to store something for later use. In some contexts, it means to stop holding or using something, such as a phone or a toy.
Examples
- I put away the groceries as soon as I got home.
- You should put away your phone during the meeting.
- He put away his tools after fixing the bike.
- She put away the winter coats when spring arrived.
- They put away their toys before bedtime.
Common mistake
Learners often forget that a pronoun can go between the verb and particle (e.g., say "put it away," not "put away it").
More phrasal verbs
- go on To go on means to continue or keep happening.
- carry out To carry out something means to do it or complete it, especially a plan, task, or instruction.
- set up To set up means to arrange or prepare something so it is ready to use or happen.
- pick up “Pick up” most commonly means to collect someone or something from a place, usually by going there.
- go back To go back means to return to a place, time, or earlier situation.