Throw away Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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throw away

[θroʊ əˈweɪ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Phrasal verb}

discard

To get rid of something that is no longer useful or wanted. It can be physical objects or abstract ideas. The action of throwing away implies permanently getting rid of something.

Synonyms

discard, dispose of, get rid of.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
throw away	Repeated entry, refer to the first instance for context and usage.
discard	Used in both casual and formal conversation, often in the context of removing or getting rid of something that is no longer needed or useful. It may also imply a certain level of carelessness or disregard. You can discard the expired food in the fridge. After reviewing all the options, they decided to discard the first plan.
dispose of	Often used in a more formal or official context, especially when referring to the proper or responsible way to get rid of something, particularly hazardous or large items. Please dispose of your electronic waste at the designated centers. The company had to dispose of the toxic chemicals safely.
get rid of	Common in everyday conversation and often used when someone wants to remove or eliminate something unwanted. This phrase is very versatile but informal. I need to get rid of these old clothes. They got rid of the unwanted furniture before moving.

Examples of usage

I decided to throw away all my old clothes and buy new ones.
She threw away her notes after the exam was over.
Don't just throw away your opportunities, make the most of them.
We need to learn to throw away negative thoughts and focus on the positive.
It's time to throw away the past and start fresh.

^{Context #2 | Phrasal verb}

waste

To waste an opportunity or potential. It implies not making good use of something valuable or beneficial.

Synonyms

miss out on, squander, waste.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
throw away	Same as the first entry, it refers to discarding something that is no longer useful or wanted. Every year, people throw away tons of plastic waste. She threw away all the broken toys.
squander	This word fits when you are describing the careless or foolish use of resources, such as time, money, or opportunities, often with regret. He squandered his inheritance on gambling. Don't squander your talents by wasting time on trivial activities.
miss out on	This is appropriate when you talk about not taking advantage of an opportunity or experience. If you don't come to the party, you'll miss out on all the fun. He missed out on a great job offer because he didn't check his email.
waste	This term is used when you are talking about using something carelessly or without making use of its full potential, which often carries a negative connotation. You shouldn't waste food when so many people are hungry. He wasted all his free time playing video games instead of studying.

Examples of usage

Don't throw away your chance to make a difference.
She threw away her talent by not pursuing her passion.
If you don't study for the exam, you're throwing away a great opportunity.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Environmental Impact

Over 2 billion tons of waste are generated globally each year, much of which could be reused or recycled instead of being thrown away.
Throwing away organic waste contributes to methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas, highlighting the need for composting.
Many countries are implementing 'zero waste' initiatives to encourage people to reduce what they throw away by reusing, repairing, or recycling.

Psychology

The act of throwing something away can trigger feelings of loss or nostalgia, as people often attach memories to objects.
Research shows that people may keep items even if they're broken because they feel guilty about throwing them away.
Minimalism advocates suggest that decluttering by throwing away or donating unused items can lead to improved mental well-being.

Pop Culture

In popular songs and movies, throwing things away often symbolizes letting go of the past or moving on with life.
The phrase 'throw away' has appeared in various viral social media challenges, encouraging users to get rid of what's no longer needed.
Throwing things away is a common theme in the home organization genre, with shows teaching viewers how to declutter effectively.

Literature

In classic literature, characters often grapple with their relationship to possessions, showing the emotional weight behind throwing things away.
The idea of throwing away can represent freedom in literary works, echoing the importance of letting go to embrace new experiences.
Modern writers often use the concept of discarding items to illustrate the themes of consumerism and excess in society.

Origin of 'throw away'

Main points about word origin

The phrase 'throw away' combines the old English word 'thrawan', meaning to twist or turn, with 'away', which means to a distant place.
The concept of throwing something away has been around for centuries, indicating a need to discard what is no longer useful.
In the 19th century, discarded items were often repurposed or reused, showing how attitudes towards waste have evolved.

The origin of the phrasal verb 'throw away' dates back to Old English, where 'throw' meant 'to twist, turn, or hurl'. The addition of 'away' as a particle intensifies the meaning of getting rid of something. Over time, the expression evolved to its current usage in modern English, emphasizing the act of discarding or wasting something.