Meaning of elope

[Kirill]

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #160 "Expressions with death, marriage and divorce", question 7

Helen is planning to ......... with Michael.

(a) marry
(b) elope
(c) engage
(d) divorce

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #160 "Expressions with death, marriage and divorce", answer 7

Helen is planning to elope with Michael.

Correct answer: (b) elope
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meaning of elope

Kirill

[Conchita]

To elope is to run away from home to get married.

[Fan of Arabian horses]

Hi together!

Could another word be: escape?

Michael

[Yankee]

Hi Michael

The word "elope" is normally used in connection with an unannounced marriage. Two people go off and get married without telling other people in advance what they're planning to do.

The meaning "escape" is possible, but definitely not typical.

Amy
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Amy
.
ESL teacher, translator, and a native speaker of American English

[Pamela]

Amy's explanation is certainly right."Elope"is used to underline unannounced and forbidden marriage,when parents from one or the other side are against marriage,and also another context"to run away from husband with a lover""Escape is also used in meaning of running away from a husband or a wife to a lover.
Ex.I hear that our married neighbour has escaped to her lover.