Away from vs. Far
What's the Difference?
Away from and far are both words that indicate distance or separation, but they are used in slightly different contexts. "Away from" typically implies movement or direction away from a specific point or location, while "far" generally refers to a greater distance or distance in general. For example, you might say "I moved away from the city" to indicate a specific direction of movement, but "The mountains are far from here" to simply describe a distance without specifying a direction. Both words can convey a sense of distance or separation, but they are used in different ways depending on the context.
Comparison
| Attribute | Away from | Far |
|---|---|---|
| Distance | Indicates movement in the opposite direction | Indicates a greater distance |
| Emotional connotation | Can imply avoidance or separation | Can imply remoteness or isolation |
| Physical location | Refers to moving or being positioned at a distance from something | Refers to being situated at a considerable distance away |
Further Detail
Definition
When it comes to the words "away" and "far," they both convey a sense of distance. However, they are used in different contexts and have slightly different meanings. "Away" typically refers to a specific direction or location that is not near, while "far" generally indicates a greater distance or extent. For example, you might say, "The store is just a few blocks away," to indicate a short distance, whereas you would say, "The mountains are far in the distance," to convey a greater distance.
Usage
The word "away" is often used to describe movement or direction, such as "She walked away from the crowd" or "He threw the ball away." It can also be used to indicate a state of absence or removal, as in "She's away on vacation" or "Put the toys away." On the other hand, "far" is used to describe distance or extent, such as "The nearest gas station is far from here" or "The finish line is still far ahead."
Distance
One key difference between "away" and "far" is the level of distance they imply. "Away" typically refers to a shorter distance, often within sight or reach, while "far" indicates a greater distance that is beyond immediate reach. For example, you might say, "The park is just a short walk away," to indicate a nearby location, whereas you would say, "The airport is far from the city center," to convey a more substantial distance.
Emotional Connotations
Another distinction between "away" and "far" is the emotional connotations they carry. "Away" can imply a sense of separation or detachment, as in "She kept her emotions locked away" or "He pushed his fears away." On the other hand, "far" often conveys a sense of remoteness or isolation, such as "The cabin was far from civilization" or "She felt far from home in the unfamiliar city."
Temporal Aspect
While both "away" and "far" refer to distance, they can also have a temporal aspect. "Away" can suggest a temporary absence or departure, as in "She'll be away for the weekend" or "He's away on a business trip." In contrast, "far" often implies a more permanent or lasting distance, such as "The memories of that day are far in the past" or "The dream of owning a house seemed far off."
Comparative Usage
When deciding between "away" and "far," it's important to consider the specific context and desired emphasis. If you want to convey a sense of immediate distance or direction, "away" may be more appropriate. On the other hand, if you're looking to emphasize a greater distance or extent, "far" would be the better choice. Ultimately, both words offer unique nuances that can enhance the clarity and depth of your communication.
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