stay away

phrasal verb

stayed away; staying away; stays away
: to not go near someone or something : avoid
I know I shouldn't go there, but it's hard to stay away.
usually + from
Stay away from my girlfriend!
He usually stays away from large crowds.
I try to stay away from caffeine.

Examples of stay away in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The judge ordered them to stay away from the mall while free on bail and awaiting prosecution. Rosalio Ahumada, Sacbee.com, 5 Jan. 2026 The Piano Man can't stay away from the stage forever. Shania Russell, Entertainment Weekly, 4 Jan. 2026 To ensure the pairing feels delicate, airy, and effortlessly elegant, the expert recommends staying away from any fabrics that are too thick or heavy. Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Jan. 2026 Riviello and the fire department asked that people stay away from the airport, which is currently closed. Colleen Cronin, Boston Herald, 4 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for stay away

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Cite this Entry

“Stay away.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stay%20away. Accessed 9 Jan. 2026.

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