Step away
2 meanings · select one to explore
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Meaning 1 of 3
Definition
To leave a role, job, or activity for a short time or for good
Example sentence
The director stepped away from the film for a family matter.
Real video usage
Three clips showing this meaning in natural speech.
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Common collocations
Natural word pairings to memorize.
Common pattern: step away from + role/activity (noun)
step away from a role
step away from the job
step away from the spotlight
step away from the computer
Separable usage
Can the object split the verb? Compare correct vs incorrect.
The founder stepped away from the company after ten years. ✅ (Correct)
The founder stepped the company away from after ten years. ❌ (Incorrect — “away from” stays together, before the object)