C1verb 5K

Flee

UK //fliː// US //fliː// Pronunciation

Definition

To run away from a place or situation of danger.

Listen to definition

In simple words: To run away quickly from danger or trouble.

Examples

• They had to flee the country to escape persecution.
• The criminals tried to flee the scene before the police arrived.
• Many animals flee their habitats during natural disasters.
• She decided to flee from her oppressive situation at home.
• He fears he might have to flee if the situation escalates.

Usage notes

Use 'flee' when discussing situations involving escape or urgency. It’s more formal than 'run away', often used in legal or dramatic contexts.

Grammar pattern

flee + object

Memory hint

Think of 'flee' as 'fly' away quickly from danger.

Collocations

• flee from danger
• flee the scene
• flee the country

Synonyms

• escape
• abscond
• evade
• bolt
• desert

Antonyms

• approach
• confront
• stay

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'fleeing' as the continuous form.
• Using 'flee' with inanimate objects instead of people.
• Incorrectly using 'flee' in non-emergency contexts.