Leave
UK /["/liːv/","/liːvz/","/left/","/ˈliːvɪŋ/"]/US /["/liːv/","/liːvz/","/left/","/ˈliːvɪŋ/"]/
Definition
to go away from a person or a place
In simple words: to go away from a place
Examples
- I will leave the house at 8 AM.
- Don't forget to leave your shoes at the door.
- She decided to leave her job and travel the world.
- Please leave a message after the beep.
- I hope you won't leave me alone in the dark.
Usage notes
Use 'leave' when departing from a location or letting go of something. Avoid in very formal writing where terms like 'depart' might be preferred.
Grammar pattern
leave + object
Memory hint
Think of 'leave' as 'to leave a place behind'—like walking out a door.
Collocations
- decide to
- intend to
- plan to
- for
- decide to
- intend to
- plan to
- for
- decide to
- intend to
- plan to
- for
Synonyms
- bequeath
- leave/let somebody alone
- let go
Antonyms
- arrive
- stay
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'leave' as in 'not taking something' vs 'leave' meaning to depart.
- Using 'leave' without an object when the sentence requires one, e.g., 'leave the party.'
- Mixing up 'leave' with 'let' in phrases.