Get Away from Me: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

Last Updated on
December 2, 2023

The idiom "get away from me" expresses disgust, anger, or fear towards someone or something. It is a way of telling someone to leave you alone or stop bothering you. It can also be used to reject or deny something untrue or offensive.

In short:

  • "Get away from me" means go away or leave me alone.

What Does "Get Away from Me" Mean?

The idiom "get away from me" has two primary meanings depending on the context or situation.

  • The first meaning is to tell someone to go away or leave you alone. This is usually said when you are angry, annoyed, or scared by someone or something. You want to create distance between yourself and the other person or thing. You may also use this idiom to end a conversation or avoid a conflict. For example, "Get away from me; you're making me sick!"
  • The second meaning is to reject or deny something untrue or offensive. This is usually said when someone tells you something that you don't believe or disagree with. You may also use this idiom to express your disgust or disapproval of something. For example, "Get away from me. That's a lie!"

Where Does "Get Away from Me" Come From?

The idiom "get away from me" is derived from the verb phrase "get away," which means to escape, flee, or move away from someone or something. The verb phrase "get away" dates back to the late 14th century, when it was used in the sense of "escape death" or "survive a danger.

10 Examples of "Get Away from Me" in Sentences

Here are some examples of how to use this idiom in different sentences:

  • Get away from me before I lose my temper!
  • I don't care about your opinion. Get away from me!
  • I told that persistent salesman to get away from me.
  • For God's sake, get away from me. I need some space.
  • Yes, please. Can you get away from me for a moment?
  • I don't want your negativity around, so get away from me.
  • She said, "Get away from me!" when he accused her of cheating.
  • Real talk: Get away from me if you're going to keep complaining.
  • He told his ex-girlfriend to "get away from me!" when she tried to hug him.
  • She screamed, "Get away from me!" when she saw the spider crawling on her bed.

Examples of "Get Away from Me" in Pop Culture

Here are some examples of how this phrase has been used in various forms of pop culture:

  • "Get Away From Me" is the debut studio album by American singer-songwriter Nellie McKay, released in 2004 by Columbia Records. The album title is a play on Come Away with Me, the Nora Jones album from two years prior.
  • "Get Away from Me" is a song by American country singer Spencer Crandall, released in 2022 as the third track on his album Western. The song is a confessional ballad about the singer's anxiety, insecurity, and self-sabotage struggles.
  • "Stay Away from Me" is a 2013 Italian romantic comedy film written and directed by Alessio Maria Federici. The film stars Enrico Brignano as Jacopo, a marriage counselor who brings bad luck to every woman he falls in love with, and Ambra Angiolini as Sara, who changes his life.

Synonyms: Other/Different Ways to Say "Get Away from Me"

Here are some synonyms and alternative ways to say this idiom:

  • Shoo
  • Get lost
  • Back off
  • Go away
  • Bugger off
  • Get off me
  • Hit the road
  • Leave me be
  • Get out of here
  • Leave me alone

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Get Away from Me"

Here are some frequently asked questions about this idiom:

  • What does "get away from me" mean?

The idiom "get away from me" expresses disgust, anger, or fear towards someone or something. It is a way of telling someone to leave you alone or stop bothering you. It can also be used to reject or deny something untrue or offensive.

  • What is the origin of the phrase "get away from me"?

The idiom "get away from me" is derived from the verb phrase "get away," which means to escape, flee, or move away from someone or something. The verb phrase "get away" dates back to the late 14th century, when it was used in the sense of "escape death" or "survive a danger."

  • Is "get away from me" rude?

Yes, "get away from me" is considered rude and impolite in most situations. It shows that you are angry or annoyed with someone or something and that you do not want to talk to them or deal with them. It can also hurt someone's feelings or make them feel rejected or unwanted.

  • When is it appropriate to use the phrase "get away from me"?

You might use it when you feel threatened, uncomfortable, or when someone is invading your personal space. It's often used in situations where politeness or subtlety isn't effective.

  • What should I do if someone tells me to "get away from them"?

Respect their request immediately by moving back or giving them space. It's important to be mindful of others' boundaries and comfort levels.

  • Can "get away from me" be used playfully or jokingly?

Yes, it can be used in a light-hearted or teasing manner among friends, but the tone and context are crucial to avoid misunderstanding.

  • Does the phrase "get away from me" carry legal implications in certain situations?

In some cases, such as restraining orders or harassment situations, this phrase could be relevant in a legal context, but it's not a legal term in itself.

  • How can I communicate the need for personal space without using this phrase?

You can express your need for personal space by using body language, non-verbal cues, or polite requests like "Excuse me, I need some space right now."

  • Can this phrase be considered offensive or hurtful if misused?

Yes, if used inappropriately or insensitively, it can be offensive and hurtful. It's important to consider the other person's feelings when using such a direct statement.

  • Is there an alternative to "Get away from me" that is less harsh but still effective?

You can use alternatives like "Please back off," "I need some distance," or "Could you give me some room?" These convey the same message with a somewhat softer tone.

Final Thoughts About "Get Away from Me"

The idiom "get away from me" is a common and versatile expression used in various situations and contexts.

Here are some key points to remember about this idiom:

  • It means go away or leave me alone.
  • It can also mean rejecting or denying something untrue or offensive.
  • It is derived from the verb phrase "get away," which means to escape, flee, or move away.
  • It is usually rude unless it is justified or necessary.
  • It has many synonyms and antonyms in English and other languages.

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