The phrase "break away" is a common English expression that means to separate or leave from a larger group or situation. In terms of its spelling, "break" is pronounced as /breɪk/, with a long "a" sound, while "away" is pronounced as /əˈweɪ/, with a schwa sound and emphasis on the second syllable. The combination of these two words sounds like /breɪ.kəˈweɪ/ and is spelled as "break away". This phrase is often used in sports, politics, and personal relationships.
Break away is a phrasal verb that refers to the act of separating or dissociating oneself from a group or entity. It describes the action of breaking free from a particular situation, relationship, or organization, often with the aim of gaining independence or autonomy.
When used figuratively, break away implies a desire to detach from established norms or constraints, to pursue personal goals or ideals. It can also suggest rebellion against conventional ideas or systems, seeking a fresh approach or new direction.
In the context of sports, break away pertains to a player successfully eluding defenders or opponents to move forward with the ball or towards a goal, often resulting in a scoring opportunity. This implies a sudden acceleration or change of direction that allows the player to outmaneuver and gain an advantage.
Additionally, break away can describe the physical act of forcibly removing oneself from a restriction, such as escaping from captivity or breaking free from a physical barrier.
Overall, break away conveys the concept of breaking free, ranging from a mental or emotional detachment to a physical and tangible separation. It implies a deliberate and purposeful departure, often involving a significant change in circumstances or dynamics.
The phrase "break away" is a compound word formed by the combination of the verb "break" and the adverb "away".
The verb "break" has roots in Old English and is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "brekanan" which means "to separate forcibly". It has cognates in other Germanic languages, such as Old High German "brehhan" and Old Norse "brekka".
The adverb "away" comes from the Old English word "onweg", which means "on from" or "far off". It is a combination of the preposition "on" and the noun "weg" meaning "way" or "road". Over time, "onweg" evolved to "away" in Middle English.
When combined, "break" adds the sense of force or separation, while "away" conveys the idea of moving far off or departing.