Fuir vs. s'enfuir
In the French language, 'fuir' and 's'enfuir' can both relate to the concept of escaping or running away; however, they are used in distinct contexts and carry slightly different connotations.
Fuir
'Fuir' is a verb that generally means 'to flee' or 'to escape'. It can imply leaving a place or situation rapidly due to danger, fear, or dislike without implying the urgency or immediacy suggested by 's'enfuir'.
Il a décidé de fuir la ville à cause du bruit incessant.
(He decided to flee the city because of the constant noise.)
Les oiseaux fuient l'approche de l'hiver.
(The birds escape the approach of winter.)
Il ne faut pas fuir ses responsabilités.
(One must not flee from their responsibilities.)
S'enfuir
'S'enfuir' is a reflexive verb that specifically means 'to run away' or 'to make an escape', often used in situations where someone leaves hurriedly and suddenly, suggesting a more immediate and perhaps panicked departure.
Dès qu'il a vu la police, il s'est enfui.
(As soon as he saw the police, he ran away.)
Les prisonniers ont réussi à s'enfuir de la prison.
(The prisoners managed to escape from the jail.)
Le voleur s'est enfui avec tous les bijoux.
(The thief ran away with all the jewelry.)
Summary
'Fuir' and 's'enfuir' both suggest leaving quickly but differ in urgency. 'Fuir' implies escaping in general, while 's'enfuir' indicates a speedy and immediate departure.