Meaning and Usage
The verb '도망가다' means 'to run away' or 'to escape.' It is commonly used when someone or something flees from danger, responsibility, or an unpleasant situation. It often implies a sudden or urgent departure.
Common Contexts
You will hear '도망가다' in everyday situations such as when someone runs away from the police, avoids a difficult problem, or when children run away out of fear.
Collocations and Patterns
- 도망가다 + from someone/something (도망가다 + 에서): to escape from a person or place
- 도망가지 말고: a common phrase meaning 'don't run away' often used to encourage facing problems
- 도망가 버리다: emphasizes the completion of running away, often with emotional nuance
Register and Politeness
'도망가다' is neutral and can be used in both casual and polite speech. When speaking politely, conjugate accordingly (e.g., 도망갔어요).
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse '도망가다' with '도망치다,' which also means 'to run away.' While similar, '도망치다' often emphasizes the act of fleeing itself, whereas '도망가다' focuses more on the movement away. Both are interchangeable in many contexts but be aware of subtle nuances.