fend away: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘fend away’ mean?
The idiom "fend away" means to protect or defend oneself against something or someone. It implies taking action to ward off or repel a threat or danger.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "keep watch" means to stay vigilant or be on the lookout for potential dangers or threats. It implies being aware and alert to ensure the safety or security of someone or something.
The idiom "keep the wolf from the door" means to have enough money or resources to provide for one's basic needs and avoid poverty or hunger.
The idiom "keep off the streets" means to stay indoors or avoid going outside, often because of dangerous or unsafe conditions on public roads or in the surrounding area.
The idiom "interpret away" means to explain or rationalize something in a way that downplays or dismisses its importance or significance.
The idiom "hold off" means to delay or keep something or someone at a distance. It implies waiting or resisting until a more suitable time or condition.
The idiom "give chase" means to pursue someone or something in order to catch or capture them.
The idiom "get rid of" means to dispose of something or eliminate something or someone.
The idiom *fool away* means to waste or squander something, usually time or an opportunity, by engaging in foolish or unproductive activities.
Unveiling Defensive Strategies
The idiomatic expression "fend and prove" is related to the idiom "fend away," as both involve actively defending and proving oneself. While "fend away" focuses on repelling or keeping something or someone at a distance, "fend and prove" adds the element of showcasing one's abilities or worth in the process of defense. This idiom suggests not only defending oneself, but also demonstrating competence and effectiveness in doing so.
Another related idiom is "beat off." This phrase emphasizes the act of forcefully repelling or driving away something or someone. Similar to "fend away," it evokes a sense of agency and proactivity in defending oneself. However, "beat off" carries a stronger connotation of actively and aggressively fighting against an opponent or threat.
The idiom "fight shy of" is also connected to the concept of actively defending or warding off. However, it adds an element of hesitation or reluctance in confronting or engaging with something or someone. While "fend away" suggests a proactive stance in defending, "fight shy of" implies a more cautious or wary approach.
Lastly, the idiom "drive away" shares the theme of actively repelling or keeping something or someone at a distance. This phrase emphasizes the act of forcefully pushing or compelling something or someone to leave. It suggests a more aggressive approach in defense, focusing on actively removing or expelling a threat or unwelcome presence.
The idiom "fend away" conveys the idea of actively defending or repelling something or someone. Its related idioms, such as "fend and prove," "beat off," "fight shy of," and "drive away," further emphasize the notion of actively protecting oneself and maintaining control over one's surroundings. Each idiom brings a unique nuance to the act of defense, highlighting different aspects such as showcasing abilities, aggressive repelling, cautious engagement, or forceful expulsion. The versatility and flexibility of these idioms allow for their usage in a wide range of contexts and situations, adding depth and complexity to the English language.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom fend away can be used in a sentence:
- She used a broom to fend away the stray dogs from her front yard.
- The brave knight managed to fend away the dragon using his sword.
- John tried to fend away the temptation to eat junk food, but eventually gave in.
More "Verb" idioms
