# stay away

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/stay-away
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To avoid or not go anywhere near someone or something.

## Examples

- Please stay away from the wet paint.
- The doctor told him to stay away from sugary snacks until his health improves.
- The villagers were warned to stay away from the forbidden forest, as the ancient legends claimed that those who entered never returned.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.