Meaning and Usage
The verb 逃跑 (táopǎo) means "to run away" or "to escape." It is commonly used to describe someone fleeing from danger, responsibility, or capture. The word combines 逃 (escape) and 跑 (run), emphasizing the act of running away.
Common Contexts
- Criminals or suspects escaping from police or authorities.
- People fleeing dangerous situations.
- Unexpectedly leaving or abandoning a situation, such as a competition or responsibility.
Collocations and Patterns
- 逃跑了 (táopǎo le): indicates the action of having run away.
- 试图逃跑 (shìtú táopǎo): attempt to escape.
- 不要逃跑 (bú yào táopǎo): don't run away.
Nuances
Using 逃跑 often implies urgency and sometimes cowardice or irresponsibility, depending on context. It is more direct and physical than simply "leaving" and usually involves running to avoid something.
Common Confusion
Don't confuse 逃跑 with 逃走 (táozǒu), which also means "to escape" but can be slightly more formal or literary. 逃跑 is more colloquial and common in spoken language.