shy away
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Where it’s used:
Used
American English
Examples
O. H. Krill, A Situation Report on Our Acquisition of Advanced Technology and Interaction with Alien Cultures
They may shy away if witnesses or law officers try to approach.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “shy away” mean?
to draw back in fear, cringe, back down
Is “shy away” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.