Grammar fix
shy away from
avoid (something) because of fear, discomfort, or reluctance
to deliberately avoid doing something because you feel nervous, unsure, or unwilling, especially when it is difficult or unpleasant
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
Many people shy away from discussing money matters with their friends.
Some students shy away from asking questions in class because they’re afraid of making mistakes, but participating actively is key to learning.
Fix the pattern
One small grammar move makes it sound right.
Not: He shies away confrontation.
Say: He shies away from confrontation.
Always 'shy away FROM' something — don't drop 'from'.
Which sounds natural?
Tap the one a native speaker would say.
'Shy away from' packs the reluctance and discomfort into the phrase; the paraphrase is wordy.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
shy away from + difficulty
- confrontation
- responsibility
- the truth
- hard questions