fly the coop
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Verb (phrasal verb, informal): * To escape or leave, especially from a confining or restrictive situation. This idiom describes the act of departing, often suddenly or secretly, from a place one is expected to stay, such as a home, job, or institution. It strongly implies a desire for freedom from confinement or boredom.
Usage and Examples
This phrasal verb is used to describe a sudden or secret departure. * The teenagers decided to fly the coop and drive to the coast for the weekend. * After years working in the same office, he finally flew the coop to start his own business. * The chickens flew the coop when the farmer left the gate open.
Advanced Usage and Nuances
- The idiom often carries a connotation of escaping from parental control, a dull job, or a monotonous routine.
- It can be used humorously or lightly, not necessarily for a dangerous escape.
- The past tense is flew the coop.
Variants and Related Words
- Escape (v): To break free from confinement or control. (More general and formal)
- Abscond (v): To leave hurriedly and secretly, typically to avoid detection or arrest. (More formal and often implies wrongdoing)
- Break out (v): To escape from prison. (More specific)
- Run away (v): To leave a place, especially secretly, to avoid trouble or duty.
Synonyms
- Escape
- Flee
- Run away
- Break free
- Get away
- Bolt
Antonyms
- Stay
- Remain
- Return
- Arrive
Related Idioms
- To skip town: To leave a town suddenly, especially to avoid trouble.
- After the scandal, the politician decided to skip town.
- To make a run for it: To try to escape by running.
- When the guard looked away, the prisoner tried to make a run for it.
Verb
- flee; take to one's heels; cut and run
- If you see this man, run!
- The burglars escaped before the police showed up