Shy away from Meaning in English
expression
ˈʃaɪ/ /əˈweɪ/ /ˈfɹəm
SHY-uh-WAY-frum
ʃˈaɪ/ /ɐwˈeɪ/ /fɹˈɒm
sh-EYE-uh-WAY-from
Definition
To avoid something because it is difficult, unpleasant, or you are afraid.
Usage & Nuances
Used in both formal and informal contexts, often with topics people find challenging (e.g., 'shy away from responsibility'). Suggests reluctance, not necessarily a strong refusal.
Spanish: evitar - alejarse dePortuguese (BR): evitar - afastar-se dePortuguese (PT): evitar - afastar-se deChinese (Simplified): 回避 - 避免Chinese (Traditional): 迴避 - 避免Hindi: से बचना - दूर रहनाArabic: يتجنب - يبتعد عنBengali: এড়িয়ে চলা - দূরে থাকাRussian: избегать - сторонитьсяJapanese: 避ける - 敬遠するVietnamese: tránh - né tránhKorean: 피하다 - 멀리하다Turkish: kaçınmak - uzak durmakUrdu: کنار ہٹنا - اجتناب کرناIndonesian: menghindar - menjauh dari
Example Sentences
Many people shy away from public speaking.
basic
She tends to shy away from conflict.
basic
If you shy away from hard work, you may not succeed.
basic
He doesn't shy away from taking risks in business.
natural
Don’t shy away from asking for help if you need it.
natural
The company tends to shy away from controversial topics.
natural