Phrasal verb
file away
Definition
phrasal verb. You use this when you put a document or information in a specific place so you can find it later. It usually means putting papers in a folder or a drawer.
phrasal verb. To place a document or record into an organized storage system, such as a folder or cabinet. The verb is transitive and can also be used figuratively to describe storing information in the mind for future use.
Examples
“I need to file away these receipts before I lose them.”
“After the meeting, she carefully filed away the signed contracts in the cabinet behind her desk to ensure they remained secure.”
“The archivist meticulously filed away the centuries-old correspondence, ensuring that each letter was preserved in a climate-controlled environment for future historical inquiry.”
Examples
simple
“I need to file away these receipts before I lose them.”
contextual
“After the meeting, she carefully filed away the signed contracts in the cabinet behind her desk to ensure they remained secure.”
complex
“The archivist meticulously filed away the centuries-old correspondence, ensuring that each letter was preserved in a climate-controlled environment for future historical inquiry.”
Usage
This phrase is separable, meaning you can put the object between 'file' and 'away'.
Teaching tip
Highlight the figurative use of 'filing something away' in one's memory, which is a common metaphorical extension in professional English.
Pitfall
I filed away it.
I filed it away.
When the object is a pronoun, it must be placed between the verb and the particle.
Phrasal verb
Particles
away
Separability
optional
Pattern
file + away + object
Synonyms
Antonyms
Grammar
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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