“Absent without leave” or AWOL refers to being absent from a military unit, job, school, or any obligation without permission. In a military context, this is considered a serious offense. Outside of the military, it refers to someone being absent without authorization or explanation.
Meaning and origin:
This phrase originates from military jargon, where being absent without official permission is a punishable offense. The abbreviation AWOL became popular in both military and civilian contexts to describe someone missing without permission. Over time, it has been used informally to describe individuals who fail to show up for school, work, or important duties without informing anyone.
Examples of usage:
In a military context:
“The soldier was taken away by the military police because he was absent without leave.”
In a civilian setting (school or work):
“John was AWOL from school and got into a lot of trouble with his parents.”
In a formal context:
“The employee was AWOL from the office for three days, causing significant delays in the project.”
Why and when to use this idiom:
This idiom is often used in formal situations, especially in military or professional contexts, but it can also be used informally to refer to someone who has been unexpectedly absent without notifying others. English learners can use this phrase to describe situations where someone fails to appear where they are expected to be.
Equivalent expressions:
- “Missing in action (MIA)” – Originally a military term for soldiers whose whereabouts are unknown, but used informally to describe someone who is absent without explanation.
- “Gone without a trace” – A more dramatic expression for someone who has disappeared without notice.
- “Unaccounted for” – A neutral way to say someone’s absence is unexplained.
Using the idiom AWOL or “absent without leave” adds precision when discussing unauthorized absences, making it useful in both formal and casual conversations.
