In 15 Seconds
- Physically turn your eyes from something.
- Used for discomfort or avoidance.
- Common in everyday conversation.
- Implies a deliberate shift in gaze.
Meaning
Imagine you're trying to avoid seeing something awkward or upsetting. That's exactly when you `look away`. It's a physical act of shifting your gaze, often to signal discomfort, embarrassment, or a desire to disengage from something unpleasant. It’s like your eyes are politely (or not so politely) closing the door on a scene you’d rather not witness.
Key Examples
3 of 12Watching a scary movie
That scene was too gory, I had to `look away`!
That scene was too gory, I had to `look away`!
Texting a friend about a bad date
He told me his weirdest hobby, and I just `looked away` for a second.
He told me his weirdest hobby, and I just `looked away` for a second.
Instagram caption for a dramatic photo
Some moments are too intense to watch directly. Sometimes you just have to `look away`.
Some moments are too intense to watch directly. Sometimes you just have to `look away`.
Cultural Background
The phrase `look away` likely emerged as a simple, direct description of a common human reaction. In social interactions, avoiding eye contact is a powerful non-verbal cue. Historically, direct eye contact could be seen as confrontational or challenging. Conversely, averting one's gaze could signal respect, submission, or embarrassment. This phrase captures that nuanced social behavior, becoming essential for describing reactions to discomfort or social awkwardness.
It's About the Eyes!
Remember, `look away` is specifically about moving your eyes. It's not just about ignoring something mentally. Think of it as a physical action your eyes take.
Don't Mix Up 'Aside' and 'Off'!
A common mistake is using `look aside` or `look off`. These aren't standard idioms for this meaning! Always use `look away` to avoid confusion and sounding unnatural.
In 15 Seconds
- Physically turn your eyes from something.
- Used for discomfort or avoidance.
- Common in everyday conversation.
- Implies a deliberate shift in gaze.
What It Means
When you look away, you physically move your eyes from something. You're choosing not to see it anymore. It’s like saying, "I can't watch this." This action often happens when something is uncomfortable. It can be embarrassing, sad, or even a little scary. You might look away during a tense movie scene. Or perhaps when someone is crying. It's a way to mentally and visually distance yourself. Think of it as a quick escape for your eyes.
How To Use It
You use look away when you want to stop seeing something. It’s a common, everyday phrase. You can use it in many situations. Just remember it’s about the physical act of turning your eyes. It’s not just about ignoring something mentally. For example, "Don't look away from the camera!" means keep your eyes on the lens. "He looked away when I asked about his ex." shows he felt awkward. It’s a simple verb phrase, easy to slot into sentences. You usually need a preposition like from or at afterwards. But sometimes, it stands alone: "Please look away now."
Real-Life Examples
- Watching a scary movie scene: "I had to
look awayduring that jump scare!" - Seeing something embarrassing happen: "When the waiter tripped, everyone
looked away." - Avoiding a difficult conversation: "She
looked awaywhen I confronted her about the mess." - On a video call: "You keep
looking awayfrom the screen. Are you distracted?" - In a gaming stream: "The streamer
looked awayfor a second, missing the crucial clue!"
When To Use It
Use look away when you want to express a physical turning of the eyes. This is usually to avoid seeing something specific. It's good for moments of discomfort. Use it for awkward social situations. It works for scary or violent content too. Think about a dramatic TV show moment. Or a news report you find disturbing. You might look away from a picture someone is showing you. It’s also useful for directing someone's gaze. "Look away for a moment, I need to adjust this." It’s a very versatile phrase for visual avoidance.
When NOT To Use It
Don't use look away when you mean to ignore something mentally. If you’re just tuning out a boring lecture, you aren't necessarily looking away. You're just not paying attention. Don't use it if you mean to stare at something. Staring is the opposite! Also, avoid it if you mean to glance quickly. A glance is a brief look. Look away implies a more deliberate shift. And it's not about looking in a different direction without a reason. There's usually a motivation behind it. Don't say "I looked away because I saw a bird." You'd more likely say "I looked at the bird." The phrase implies avoidance.
Common Mistakes
- ✗ I
looked asidefrom the accident. → ✓ Ilooked awayfrom the accident. - ✗ She
turned her eyesfrom the screen. → ✓ Shelooked awayfrom the screen. - ✗ He
looked offwhen I spoke. → ✓ Helooked awaywhen I spoke. - ✗ Don't
look overwhen I'm talking! → ✓ Don'tlook awaywhen I'm talking!
It's easy to mix up prepositions! 'Aside', 'off', and 'over' don't quite capture the specific meaning of avoiding sight. 'Turned her eyes' is too literal and clunky. Stick to look away for that specific action.
Similar Expressions
Turn away: This is very similar. It can mean physically turning your body. Or it can meanlooking away. Context is key here. "Heturned awayfrom the crowd." (physical turn). "Sheturned awayfrom the ugly painting." (visual turn).Avert your gaze: This is a more formal way to saylook away. It sounds more serious. You might see it in news reports. "The witnessaverted her gazewhen describing the suspect."Divert your eyes: Similar toavert your gaze. It suggests actively redirecting your vision. It's a bit more formal thanlook away.Shut your eyes: This is much stronger. It means to close your eyelids completely. You do this to block out everything. It's not just shifting your gaze.
Common Variations
Look away from something: This is the most common structure. "I had tolook away fromthe news." It clearly states what you're avoiding.Look away now: Often used as a command. "Okay, the photo's done.Look away now."Looked away: The past tense. "Helooked awayguiltily."Looking away: The present participle. "She'slooking awaybecause she's shy."
Memory Trick
Imagine a Wicked Alien trying to look away from Earth's beauty. The W and A remind you of Wrong direction and Avoidance. Or think of someone looking away because they saw something AWful! The 'AW' sound pops up, just like that moment of surprise. It’s a visual cue: eyes moving AWAY from the scene. You can even draw a quick sketch! A smiley face with eyes pointing to the side, with the letters 'AW' written next to it.
Quick FAQ
- Can
look awaybe used for emotions?
Yes, it often implies emotions like embarrassment or discomfort. But the action itself is physical.
- Is
look awayalways negative?
Not always. You might look away to avoid spoiling a surprise for someone. Or to focus on something else.
- Does it mean to ignore someone?
Not exactly. It's specifically about not looking at something. You can still hear or interact.
- What's the difference between
look awayandturn away?
Turn away can mean turning your body. Look away is specifically about your eyes. Though sometimes they overlap.
- Can I use it for digital screens?
Absolutely! "Look away from your phone for a bit." is very common today.
Usage Notes
The phrase `look away` is generally neutral in formality, making it suitable for most everyday situations. Be mindful that while it describes a physical action, it often carries connotations of discomfort, embarrassment, or avoidance. Avoid using it for simple mental disregard; it specifically refers to shifting your eyes.
It's About the Eyes!
Remember, `look away` is specifically about moving your eyes. It's not just about ignoring something mentally. Think of it as a physical action your eyes take.
Don't Mix Up 'Aside' and 'Off'!
A common mistake is using `look aside` or `look off`. These aren't standard idioms for this meaning! Always use `look away` to avoid confusion and sounding unnatural.
The Power of Averted Gaze
In many cultures, directly avoiding eye contact (`looking away`) can signal respect or deference, especially towards elders or authority figures. However, in other contexts, it might seem rude or evasive. Be mindful of the situation!
Use It for Directives
You can use `look away` as a command! Try phrases like 'Okay, `look away` now' or 'Don't `look away`!' This makes it super practical for giving instructions.
Examples
12That scene was too gory, I had to `look away`!
That scene was too gory, I had to `look away`!
Shows physical avoidance of unpleasant visual content.
He told me his weirdest hobby, and I just `looked away` for a second.
He told me his weirdest hobby, and I just `looked away` for a second.
Implies awkwardness and a desire to disengage visually.
Some moments are too intense to watch directly. Sometimes you just have to `look away`.
Some moments are too intense to watch directly. Sometimes you just have to `look away`.
Expresses a need for emotional distance from a powerful image.
During the difficult question, I noticed the interviewer `looked away` briefly.
During the difficult question, I noticed the interviewer `looked away` briefly.
Describes a subtle non-verbal cue in a professional setting.
Okay, `look away` for a moment while I grab the map from my bag.
Okay, `look away` for a moment while I grab the map from my bag.
A direct instruction to shift gaze temporarily.
The way he danced... I had to `look away` 💀
The way he danced... I had to `look away` 💀
Internet slang expressing secondhand embarrassment.
✗ I `looked aside` when the car almost hit me. → ✓ I `looked away` when the car almost hit me.
✗ I `looked aside` when the car almost hit me. → ✓ I `looked away` when the car almost hit me.
`Look aside` is not a standard idiom for avoidance.
✗ He `looked off` during the presentation because he was bored. → ✓ He `looked away` during the presentation because he was bored.
✗ He `looked off` during the presentation because he was bored. → ✓ He `looked away` during the presentation because he was bored.
`Look off` is not the correct phrase for shifting gaze due to boredom.
When asked about the mistake, she couldn't help but `look away`.
When asked about the mistake, she couldn't help but `look away`.
Shows an involuntary reaction of discomfort or guilt.
Seeing the aftermath was hard; I had to `look away` several times.
Seeing the aftermath was hard; I had to `look away` several times.
Used to convey the emotional impact of a scene.
The speaker's comment was so inappropriate, many guests `looked away`.
The speaker's comment was so inappropriate, many guests `looked away`.
Describes a collective, polite way to show disapproval.
Don't `look away` now, I need you to tell me the truth.
Don't `look away` now, I need you to tell me the truth.
Used to encourage direct engagement and honesty.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct form of the phrase.
The sentence describes an inability to watch something, which perfectly matches the meaning of `look away`.
Find and fix the error in the sentence.
`Look aside` is not the standard idiom. The correct phrase to express turning your eyes away from something unpleasant is `look away`.
Choose the sentence that uses the phrase 'look away' correctly.
Which sentence uses the phrase correctly?
The phrase `look away` refers to physically shifting your gaze. The correct sentence uses it to describe avoiding an intense visual scene. The other options misuse the phrase, implying mental avoidance or examination.
Translate this sentence into English.
The Spanish phrase 'aparté la mirada' directly translates to the physical action of moving one's gaze away, which is perfectly captured by the English phrase `look away`.
Fill in the blank with the correct form of the phrase.
The word 'guiltily' suggests discomfort and avoidance, making `looked away` the most appropriate choice.
Find and fix the error in the sentence.
`Look off` is not a standard idiom for avoiding eye contact. The correct phrase to express not looking at someone or something is `look away`.
Put the words in the correct order to form a sentence.
This rearranges the words into a polite request to shift one's gaze temporarily.
Choose the correct option.
Which sentence is correct?
The preposition `from` is often used with `look away` to specify what is being avoided. The other sentences are grammatically incorrect or use the phrase in a nonsensical context.
Fill in the blank with the correct form of the phrase.
The context of a stern adult speaking implies the child might feel intimidated or uncomfortable, leading them to `look away`.
Find and fix the error in the sentence.
`Look aside` is not the correct idiom. The standard phrase for turning your eyes away from something is `look away`.
Put the words in the correct order to form a sentence.
This sentence correctly uses `look away from` to describe avoiding a particular visual scene.
Choose the sentence that uses the phrase 'look away' correctly.
Which sentence uses 'look away' correctly?
This sentence correctly uses `look away from` to indicate avoiding a visual stimulus. The other options misuse the phrase, implying mental avoidance or incorrect grammatical structure.
🎉 Score: /12
Visual Learning Aids
Formality Spectrum of 'Look Away'
Used casually in texting, online comments, or among close friends.
OMG, that video made me wanna look away 🤢
Standard usage in most everyday conversations and writing.
I had to look away during that intense scene.
Can be used in professional settings, but more formal alternatives exist.
The candidate looked away when questioned about his record.
Rarely used in very formal contexts; 'avert gaze' is preferred.
He looked away, unable to face the consequences.
When Do You 'Look Away'?
Scary Movie
I had to look away during the jump scare!
Awkward Moment
He looked away when I mentioned his ex.
Discomfort
She looked away from the disturbing news report.
Video Call
You keep looking away from the camera.
Surprise/Shock
I looked away in disbelief at his reaction.
Direct Instruction
Okay, look away now, the photo is done.
Comparing 'Look Away' with Similar Phrases
Contexts for 'Look Away'
Entertainment
- • Watching horror movies
- • Skipping spoilers
- • Cringe-worthy TV shows
Social Interaction
- • Awkward conversations
- • Embarrassing moments
- • Avoiding eye contact
Personal Feelings
- • Discomfort
- • Sadness
- • Guilt
Digital Communication
- • Video calls
- • Online content
- • Distraction
Practice Bank
12 exercisesWhen the accident happened, I couldn't help but ———.
The sentence describes an inability to watch something, which perfectly matches the meaning of `look away`.
Find and fix the mistake:
She looked aside from the shocking image on the screen.
`Look aside` is not the standard idiom. The correct phrase to express turning your eyes away from something unpleasant is `look away`.
Which sentence uses the phrase correctly?
The phrase `look away` refers to physically shifting your gaze. The correct sentence uses it to describe avoiding an intense visual scene. The other options misuse the phrase, implying mental avoidance or examination.
Cuando la escena se puso demasiado intensa, aparté la mirada.
Hints: The verb 'apartar' can mean to move away or turn away., Focus on the physical action of moving eyes.
The Spanish phrase 'aparté la mirada' directly translates to the physical action of moving one's gaze away, which is perfectly captured by the English phrase `look away`.
He ——— guiltily when asked about the broken vase.
The word 'guiltily' suggests discomfort and avoidance, making `looked away` the most appropriate choice.
Find and fix the mistake:
Please don't look off when I am explaining this important point.
`Look off` is not a standard idiom for avoiding eye contact. The correct phrase to express not looking at someone or something is `look away`.
Arrange the words in the correct order:
Click words above to build the sentence
This rearranges the words into a polite request to shift one's gaze temporarily.
Which sentence is correct?
The preposition `from` is often used with `look away` to specify what is being avoided. The other sentences are grammatically incorrect or use the phrase in a nonsensical context.
The child ——— when the adult spoke sternly.
The context of a stern adult speaking implies the child might feel intimidated or uncomfortable, leading them to `look away`.
Find and fix the mistake:
I looked aside from the scary part of the movie.
`Look aside` is not the correct idiom. The standard phrase for turning your eyes away from something is `look away`.
Arrange the words in the correct order:
Click words above to build the sentence
This sentence correctly uses `look away from` to describe avoiding a particular visual scene.
Which sentence uses 'look away' correctly?
This sentence correctly uses `look away from` to indicate avoiding a visual stimulus. The other options misuse the phrase, implying mental avoidance or incorrect grammatical structure.
🎉 Score: /12
Video Tutorials
Find video tutorials on YouTube for this phrase.
Frequently Asked Questions
18 questionsIt means to physically turn your eyes away from something you are currently seeing. This is often done to avoid looking at something unpleasant, embarrassing, or uncomfortable. It’s a direct action of shifting your gaze.
Use look away when you want to describe the act of physically turning your eyes from a specific sight. This is common when something is startling, sad, awkward, or you simply want to disengage visually from a scene.
It's quite versatile and generally considered neutral. You can use it in casual conversations with friends, but it's also perfectly acceptable in more formal settings like professional discussions or written reports when describing someone's reaction.
Absolutely! In today's world, it's very common to use look away when talking about screens. For example, 'You've been staring at your phone too long, maybe look away for a bit?' It applies perfectly to digital distractions.
While often used interchangeably, turn away can refer to turning your whole body, whereas look away specifically focuses on the movement of your eyes. However, if someone turns their body away, they are usually also looking away.
Not necessarily. Look away is about the physical act of not looking at something. You can still hear it or think about it. Ignoring something is more about mental disregard, which might happen with or without looking away.
A frequent error is using incorrect prepositions or similar-sounding phrases like 'look aside' or 'look off'. These are not standard idioms. Always stick to look away for the intended meaning of shifting your gaze to avoid seeing something.
Yes, definitely. If someone hears distressing news, they might physically look away as a natural reaction to the emotional impact. It conveys a sense of shock, sadness, or inability to process the information visually.
Yes, the phrase 'avert your gaze' is a more formal and sometimes more dramatic way to express the same idea. You might encounter it in literature or more serious news reporting.
If someone looks away during a conversation, it often suggests they feel uncomfortable, embarrassed, shy, or are perhaps trying to hide something. It's a non-verbal cue that indicates a break in direct engagement.
Yes, it can be used as a direct command. For instance, if you're taking a photo, you might say, 'Okay, everyone look away now!' or during a video call, 'Please don't look away while I'm speaking.'
Not always, though it often does imply discomfort or avoidance. For example, you might look away briefly to avoid spoiling a surprise for someone else, or to focus your attention on a different task momentarily.
Glance means to take a very quick look, often brief and perhaps accidental. Look away implies a more deliberate shift of your eyes *from* something, often sustained for a moment or longer, driven by a specific reason like discomfort.
The phrase is quite literal in English. 'Look' refers to the action of directing your eyes, and 'away' indicates direction, meaning away from the current focus. So, it literally means to direct your eyes away from something.
While look away primarily describes a physical action, it can be used metaphorically for abstract concepts. For instance, 'He tried to look away from his past mistakes,' meaning he tried to stop thinking about them, though this usage leans more towards 'ignore'.
This specific phrasing suggests that the person's act of looking away was a direct result of feeling guilty. The averted gaze is seen as a sign that they know they did something wrong and feel uncomfortable being observed.
The core meaning and usage of look away are fairly standard across English-speaking regions. While vocabulary or sentence structure might vary slightly, the fundamental concept of shifting one's gaze to avoid seeing something remains consistent.
Watch movies or TV shows and notice when characters look away – try to guess why. Practice using it in sentences describing awkward social situations or reactions to intense scenes. Role-playing simple dialogues can also be very helpful.
Related Phrases
turn away
related topicTo direct your body or gaze away from something or someone.
Both phrases involve directing your attention or body away from something, but 'turn away' can also imply a physical rotation of the body.
avert your gaze
formal versionTo turn your eyes away from something, often formally or deliberately.
'Avert your gaze' is a more formal and sometimes more intense synonym for `look away`, used in situations requiring a higher register of speech.
ignore
related topicTo refuse to take notice of or acknowledge; disregard.
While `look away` is a physical action, 'ignore' is a mental one; someone might `look away` as a way to ignore something.
glance
related topicTo take a brief or hurried look.
A 'glance' is a quick look, whereas `look away` implies shifting your gaze *from* something, which might involve a longer or more deliberate action.
look down
related topicTo direct your eyes downwards.
This is another specific direction of eye movement, contrasting with `look away` which implies moving eyes *from* a point of focus.
shut your eyes
antonymTo close your eyelids completely.
While both actions block sight, `shut your eyes` is a complete closure, whereas `look away` is a redirection of vision.
