fleeing

word · lemma: flee

/ˈfɫiɪŋ/
/flˈiːɪŋ/

Definition

The act of running away from danger, trouble, or something frightening; someone who is escaping quickly from a place or situation.

Usage & Nuances

Common in news, formal, and narrative contexts. Usually describes urgent or dangerous escape, not just casually leaving. 'Fleeing' is often used with 'from' (e.g., 'fleeing from the police'). Don't confuse with 'leaving' (neutral) or 'escaping' (general).

Example Sentences

After hearing sirens, he dropped everything and started fleeing.

natural

Thousands are fleeing the city because of the flood.

natural

The suspect was fleeing the scene.

basic

The deer was fleeing from the wolf.

basic

People were fleeing the burning building.

basic

It's hard to say what someone is really running from when they're fleeing.

natural