The phrase "went AWOL" is commonly used in military contexts to describe a soldier who has deserted their post without permission. The spelling of "AWOL" is derived from the acronym for "Absent Without Leave". In phonetic transcription, it is pronounced /ˈeɪwɒl/, with the stressed syllable being the first one. This phrase has also gained broader usage in everyday language to describe someone who has left their job or responsibility without authorization, but in this context, it is considered slang.
"Went AWOL" is an acronym for "absent without leave." It is a military term used to describe a situation where a service member, without authorization, fails to report to their designated place of duty or is absent for a longer period than permitted. This term can also be used informally to describe any individual who is absent or missing without proper permission in a non-military context.
In the context of the military, going AWOL is considered a serious offense, as it reflects a breach of discipline and a violation of military rules and regulations. The consequences for going AWOL can vary depending on the military branch and the specific circumstances, ranging from reprimands and loss of pay to more severe punishments such as court-martials, dishonorable discharge, or even imprisonment.
Outside the military context, "went AWOL" can be used to describe someone who has abandoned their responsibilities or obligations without informing those involved. It can also imply a conscious decision to ignore obligations or commitments. For example, if an employee suddenly leaves their job without providing any notice or explanation, they can be said to have gone AWOL.
Overall, "went AWOL" refers to a situation where someone is absent or missing without proper authorization or approval, either in the military or in other aspects of life, ultimately highlighting a disregard for responsibilities or duties.
The phrase "went AWOL" originates from military terminology. The term AWOL is an acronym for "Absent Without Leave", with each letter representing the first initial of a word. The earliest documented use of AWOL dates back to the early 19th century in the United States Army. The word "went" is simply the past tense of the verb "go". So, "went AWOL" means that someone has departed or left their post without official permission or authorization in a military context.