In 15 Seconds
- Used to describe a large physical distance between two points.
- Common in storytelling, everyday travel talk, and casual conversation.
- Usually placed at the end of a sentence for natural flow.
Meaning
This phrase describes something that is not close to you. It means there is a lot of space or a long travel time between two places.
Key Examples
3 of 6Talking about a vacation spot
I want to go somewhere far away this summer.
I want to go somewhere at a distance this summer.
Complaining about a long commute
My new office is just too far away.
My new office is simply too at a distance.
A formal business inquiry
Is the warehouse located far away from the main port?
Is the warehouse located at a distance from the main port?
Cultural Background
In the US, 'far away' is often used to describe cross-country travel. In the UK, 'far away' can refer to a distance of just a few hours by train. Australians often use 'far away' for distances that would be considered extreme in Europe. In Japan, 'far away' is often used to express the difficulty of travel due to traffic.
Use it for time
Don't just use it for places. You can say 'The weekend is far away'.
Don't overcomplicate
You don't need 'from here' every time.
In 15 Seconds
- Used to describe a large physical distance between two points.
- Common in storytelling, everyday travel talk, and casual conversation.
- Usually placed at the end of a sentence for natural flow.
What It Means
Far away is a simple way to talk about distance. It means something is a long distance from where you are. You can use it for physical places like a city. You can also use it for things you see, like a star. It is very common and easy to understand.
How To Use It
Put it after the subject or a verb. For example: "My house is far away." You can also add too or so for emphasis. "The moon is so far away tonight!" It usually comes at the end of a sentence. It feels natural and flows well in conversation.
When To Use It
Use it when talking about travel or locations. Use it when looking at a map with a friend. It is perfect for telling someone why you are late. "Sorry, I live far away!" It works when talking about dreams or goals that feel hard to reach too. It is a very safe phrase for any day.
When NOT To Use It
Do not use it for time. Don't say "Monday is far away." Instead, say Monday is "a long way off." Also, avoid it if the distance is small. If it is only a five-minute walk, it is not far away. Don't use it in very technical science papers. Scientists prefer exact numbers like "kilometers."
Cultural Background
English speakers use this to express a feeling of separation. It often appears in fairy tales. Many stories start with "In a land far away." This creates a sense of magic and mystery. It is a very nostalgic phrase for many people. It reminds us of childhood stories and big adventures.
Common Variations
Sometimes people just say far. You might hear "It's not that far." Another common version is a long way away. This sounds a bit more dramatic. If you are texting, you might just say "it's a trek." But far away remains the most classic choice for everyone.
Usage Notes
The phrase is neutral and safe for all situations. Just remember that 'far' is often used for questions and negatives, while 'far away' is common in positive statements.
Use it for time
Don't just use it for places. You can say 'The weekend is far away'.
Don't overcomplicate
You don't need 'from here' every time.
Examples
6I want to go somewhere far away this summer.
I want to go somewhere at a distance this summer.
Expresses a desire for a big trip.
My new office is just too far away.
My new office is simply too at a distance.
Uses 'too' to show frustration with the distance.
Is the warehouse located far away from the main port?
Is the warehouse located at a distance from the main port?
Standard way to ask about logistics.
I'm coming, but the parking lot is far away!
I'm coming, but the parking lot is at a distance!
Explaining a delay in a text.
Wow, that ball landed far away from the hole!
Wow, that ball landed at a distance from the hole!
Used to poke fun at a friend's golf skills.
It is hard being so far away from you.
It is hard being so at a distance from you.
Expresses emotional longing and physical separation.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct phrase.
The beach is ____ from our hotel.
The context implies distance.
Choose the correct sentence.
Which sentence is correct?
This is the most natural way to express distance.
Match the phrase with its meaning.
Match 'far away' with its definition.
Far away means not close.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Is the airport far away? B: ____.
Direct answer to the question.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesThe beach is ____ from our hotel.
The context implies distance.
Which sentence is correct?
This is the most natural way to express distance.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
Far away means not close.
A: Is the airport far away? B: ____.
Direct answer to the question.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsYes, it is very common.
It is neutral.
Related Phrases
a long way
synonymA large distance.
far off
similarDistant.
miles away
similarVery far.
nearby
contrastClose.
