The phrase "scares away" consists of two words that are phonetically spelled as /skɛrz əweɪ/. The "scares" part starts with the "sk" consonant blend that is pronounced as /sk/. Then, it is followed by the vowel sound /ɛ/ and the consonant sound /r/. The last part of the phrase, "away," starts with the sound /ə/, which is the "schwa" sound, followed by the consonant sound /w/ and the vowel sound /eɪ/. Together, these sounds create the correct pronunciation of "scares away."
The term "scares away" refers to the act of causing or inducing fear or anxiety in such a way as to deter or drive off someone or something. It encompasses any action, behavior, or stimuli that instills a sense of fear or fright in someone or something, resulting in their retreat or avoidance.
To scare away implies the use of intimidation or creating a sense of threat, compelling the affected party to take evasive measures. This phrase commonly describes the act of frightening away animals, people, or unwanted guests, either intentionally or inadvertently. It suggests an action that removes or prevents someone or something from approaching or lingering in a particular area or situation.
The act of scaring away can take various forms, such as loud noises, sudden movements, aggressive behavior, or visual or auditory stimuli that evoke a sense of danger. This tactic is often employed as a defensive mechanism, aiming to protect oneself, one's property, or a particular territory from potential harm or intrusion.
Furthermore, the phrase "scares away" can also be metaphorically used to indicate the dissipation or disruption of confidence, enthusiasm, or interest in a person or situation. It signifies creating a sense of unease or apprehension that detracts or discourages engagement, participation, or continued involvement. In this context, "scares away" implies the discouraging or deterring effect of fear or doubt on someone's actions or enthusiasm.
The etymology of the word "scares away" can be traced back to the Middle English word "scaren", which means "to frighten" or "to alarm". "Scaren" originated from the Old Norse word "skirra", meaning "to frighten" or "to scare off". Over time, the word "scare" evolved into "scares", and the addition of "away" denotes the action of causing someone or something to flee or retreat due to fear.