Quick Definition
Throw Away — To discard something; to waste an opportunity.
Meanings of Throw Away
| Meaning | Example Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Discard | Don't throw away the receipt — you may need it. | Don't discard it. |
| Waste an opportunity | He threw away his chance to get into university. | He wasted the chance. |
Example Sentences
| Sentence | Meaning in Context |
|---|---|
| Don't throw away the receipt — you may need it. | Don't discard it. |
| He threw away his chance to get into university. | He wasted the chance. |
| "Don't worry -- I'll throw away it." | Using it in a short reassurance. |
| She decided to throw away the whole situation. | Applying the phrasal verb in context. |
Grammar Notes
Separability & Transitivity
Type: separable | Transitivity: transitive
Transitive and separable: throw the paper away or throw away the paper. Pronoun before particle: throw it away.
How to Use Throw Away
Neutral. The 'discard' sense is everyday; the 'waste' sense is also common in motivational contexts.
| Register | Example / Notes |
|---|---|
| Informal / Spoken | Don't throw away the receipt — you may need it. |
| Neutral / Written | Consider context; single-word synonyms may suit formal writing. |
Similar Phrasal Verbs
Practise Throw Away
Practice English Phrasal Verbs
Use these exercises to master phrasal verbs in context:
Frequently Asked Questions about Throw Away
What does "Throw Away" mean?
"Throw Away" means: To discard something; to waste an opportunity. It is a transitive phrasal verb rated CEFR B1.
Is "Throw Away" separable or inseparable?
"Throw Away" is separable. Transitive and separable: throw the paper away or throw away the paper. Pronoun before particle: throw it away.
How do I use "Throw Away" in a sentence?
Don't throw away the receipt — you may need it. -- in this example, 'Throw Away' means don't discard it.
What is the register of "Throw Away"?
Neutral. The 'discard' sense is everyday; the 'waste' sense is also common in motivational contexts.
What CEFR level is "Throw Away"?
"Throw Away" is typically taught at CEFR B1 — Intermediate level. It appears frequently in neutral contexts.
What is the difference between "Throw Away" and similar phrasal verbs?
"Throw Away" specifically means: To discard something; to waste an opportunity. Compare with similar verbs in the 'Similar Phrasal Verbs' section below for nuanced differences.
Can "Throw Away" be used formally?
Neutral. The 'discard' sense is everyday; the 'waste' sense is also common in motivational contexts. When writing formally, consider whether a single-word synonym might be more appropriate for the context.
Does "Throw Away" take an object?
"Throw Away" is transitive. Transitive and separable: throw the paper away or throw away the paper. Pronoun before particle: throw it away.
How can I practise "Throw Away"?
Use LexFizz's Find the Match and Flip Tiles exercises to practise 'Throw Away' in context. Seeing it in multiple sentences helps the meaning stick.
Is "Throw Away" used in British or American English?
"Throw Away" is used in both British and American English, though register and frequency may vary. Neutral. The 'discard' sense is everyday; the 'waste' sense is also common in motivational contexts.