The phrase "steal away" primarily refers to the act of departing or leaving quietly and discreetly. When someone "steals away" from a gathering or location, they do so without drawing attention to themselves or without being noticed by others. For instance, someone might "steal away" from a party or an event if they wish to avoid a formal goodbye or sidestep a potentially uncomfortable situation.
In short:
"Steal away" means to leave quietly or secretly.
The idiom is another way of describing a subtle or unobtrusive exit. Let's check the key aspects of the idiom's meaning:
"Steal Away" is an idiom that holds historical, cultural, and spiritual importance. Its origins are not solely linguistic; they also carry the weight of a historical narrative.
One of the most significant usages of the term "steal away" can be found in African-American spirituals during the 19th century. The phrase was used in a context that alluded to escaping or "stealing away" from the harsh conditions of slavery.
"Steal away to Jesus, steal away. Steal away, steal away to Jesus. Ain't nobody know but you and me."
"Steal away to Jesus," a spiritual song, uses this phrase to symbolize slaves' longing for freedom and salvation. It was not just a religious song but also a coded message. For many enslaved individuals, it meant a clandestine meeting was taking place, or an escape plan was in the works.
Today, while it can still refer to a discreet or secretive departure, it has also come to mean leaving or slipping away for more benign reasons, like needing a quiet moment or evading a cumbersome situation
Idioms bring color to language. Here are some ways you might hear "steal away" used:
From lyrics to literature, our favorite idiom has made several appearances:
The idiom "steal away" has often been employed to depict quietly or discreetly leaving a place or situation. But did you know some other expressions and terms can communicate a similar sentiment?
For example:
Whether you're an aspiring writer, a language enthusiast, or someone merely seeking alternative ways to express a quiet exit, this list is your treasure trove!
It means to leave a place or situation quietly or without being noticed.
The exact origins are unclear, but it has been used in literary contexts since at least the 18th century, as seen in writings by figures like Benjamin Franklin.
Yes, it is still used, especially in literary or dramatic contexts, to denote a quiet or unnoticed departure.
Yes! "Steal away" is also the title of several songs across different eras and genres.
While it's understood, it's best used in more poetic or narrative pieces rather than strict formal writing.
Absolutely! For instance, a couple might "steal away" for a romantic moment alone.
While both imply leaving, "steal away" often suggests a more subtle or unnoticed departure, while "run away" can imply haste or urgency.
No, it's purely idiomatic. It doesn't imply any actual stealing or thievery.
Yes, from songs to movies and TV shows, this idiom has found its way into various media.
While it's primarily an English expression, its meaning is understood in other cultures familiar with English idioms.
Idioms like "steal away" make languages rich and vibrant. They connect us to the past, reflect our cultures, and often bring a smile to our faces. So, the next time you want to "steal away," remember you're part of a grand linguistic tradition!
Understanding idioms like "steal away" enriches our language comprehension and provides depth to our expressions. It reminds us of the beauty and complexity of language and encourages us to explore further, not just to communicate but to connect deeply with our shared histories and emotions.
