The Village Idiom

fend away

The idiom "fend away" means to protect or defend oneself against something or someone. It implies taking action to ward off or repel a threat or danger.

Filed under F

In a sentence

  • She used a broom to fend away the stray dogs from her front yard.
  • The brave knight managed to fend away the dragon using his sword.
  • John tried to fend away the temptation to eat junk food, but eventually gave in.

Where it comes from and how it is used

The idiomatic expression "fend and prove" is related to the idiom "fend away," as both involve actively defending and proving oneself. While "fend away" focuses on repelling or keeping something or someone at a distance, "fend and prove" adds the element of showcasing one's abilities or worth in the process of defense. This idiom suggests not only defending oneself, but also demonstrating competence and effectiveness in doing so.

The idiom "fight shy of" is also connected to the concept of actively defending or warding off. However, it adds an element of hesitation or reluctance in confronting or engaging with something or someone. While "fend away" suggests a proactive stance in defending, "fight shy of" implies a more cautious or wary approach.

The idiom "fend away" conveys the idea of actively defending or repelling something or someone. Its related idioms, such as "fend and prove," "beat off," "fight shy of," and "drive away," further emphasize the notion of actively protecting oneself and maintaining control over one's surroundings. Each idiom brings a unique nuance to the act of defense, highlighting different aspects such as showcasing abilities, aggressive repelling, cautious engagement, or forceful expulsion. The versatility and flexibility of these idioms allow for their usage in a wide range of contexts and situations, adding depth and complexity to the English language.

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