run
run — verb
- runpresent simple I / you / we / they
- runshe / she / it
- ranpast simple
- running-ing form
1. To move forward with a gait where both feet leave the ground briefly between str
To move forward with a gait where both feet leave the ground briefly between strides, at a speed greater than ordinary walking.
Tomás runs to the bus stop every morning before school.
run + to + destination for routine
Zola ran faster than her cousin in the race at the park.
run + comparative: ran faster than
Eli runs three kilometres every evening to stay healthy.
run + distance: run(s) X kilometres
After the bell rang, the students ran out of the classroom and into the yard.
The dog ran across the beach to fetch the stick that Emily had thrown.
- run fast
- run quickly
- run for the bus
- run a race
- run after someone
- walk
moving at a slower pace with one foot always on the ground
Grammar Patterns
run + to-infinitive
run + adverb of direction
run + distance
Common Mistakes
2. To make an animal such as a horse or dog take part in a race.
To make an animal such as a horse or dog take part in a race.
The Kim family runs their prize horse in the local derby every spring.
run + animal + in + [competition]
Tomás decided to run his greyhound at next month's competition.
Mayumi's uncle ran his champion sheepdog at the county fair last year.
Eri plans to run her pony in the children's race this weekend.
- run a horse
- run a dog
- run in the Derby
- enter
more general; can be used for people or animals registering for a race
Grammar Patterns
run + animal + in + race event
Usage Note
The object is usually a horse, dog, or other animal bred for racing. Frequently used with 'in' to name the event.
3. To travel to a place at a fast pace, using any means of movement, especially whe
To travel to a place at a fast pace, using any means of movement, especially when time is short.
Christopher ran to the hospital when he heard the news about his grandfather.
run + to + destination for urgency
The delivery van ran across town to make the last drop before closing time.
Tanvi ran upstairs to grab her umbrella before the rain started.
The ambulance ran through the busy streets with its siren wailing.
inanimate subject: vehicle runs through [location]
- run to the hospital
- run through the streets
- run across town
- amble
moving at a slow, relaxed pace
Grammar Patterns
run + to + destination
run + prepositional phrase
Usage Note
The subject can be a person hurrying on foot or a vehicle moving rapidly. Unlike sense 1, the focus is on speed and urgency rather than the physical action of running.
4. To run away quickly from a dangerous person, animal, or situation in order to av
To run away quickly from a dangerous person, animal, or situation in order to avoid harm.
The dog ran when it heard the loud explosion from the construction site.
Marta ran from the angry bull and climbed over the fence to safety.
run from + [source of danger]
The children ran for shelter when the storm suddenly grew stronger.
Noor's cat ran from the room the moment the vacuum cleaner started.
- run from danger
- run for your life
- run away
- run for shelter
- approach
moving toward someone or something, the opposite of running away
Grammar Patterns
run from + source of danger
run + adverb of direction
Usage Note
Distinguish from sense 1: the purpose here is escape or avoidance, not exercise or travel. Common with 'from', 'for', or directional adverbs.
Common Mistakes
5. To make the leg motions of running while the body stays in the same place, usual
To make the leg motions of running while the body stays in the same place, usually on a machine or as an exercise.
Eli ran on the treadmill at the gym for thirty minutes this morning.
run on a treadmill
The coach made the team run in place while waiting for the rain to stop.
Mayumi runs on the spot to warm up before her dance class begins.
The physiotherapist told Zola to run on the special machine to test her knee recovery.
- run on a treadmill
- run in place
- run on the spot
- jog on the spot
a lighter, less intense version of the same action
Grammar Patterns
run + on + equipment
run + in place
run + on the spot
Usage Note
Typically used with 'on a treadmill', 'on the spot', or 'in place'. Common in exercise and rehabilitation contexts.
6. To advance the ball by running with it toward the opposite end zone in American
To advance the ball by running with it toward the opposite end zone in American football.
The quarterback ran the ball fifteen yards before being tackled.
run the ball + distance - American football
Christopher ran straight through the defence to score the winning touchdown.
The coach told the team to run the ball instead of passing next play.
Tomás ran past two defenders to the ten-yard line before going out of bounds.
- run the ball
- run for a touchdown
- run past defenders
- carry the ball
a more literal description of the same action
- pass
the alternative action of throwing the ball instead of running with it
Grammar Patterns
run + the ball
run + adverb of direction
Usage Note
Specific to American football (not soccer). Can be used transitively ('run the ball') or intransitively ('run for a touchdown').
7. to go along a fixed way between two points — used for buses, trains, roads, pipe
to go along a fixed way between two points — used for buses, trains, roads, pipes, cables, and other things that stretch across or travel on a set path.
The number 73 bus runs from the train station to the university campus.
run + adverb/preposition for route
A hiking trail runs through the forest and ends at a beautiful lake.
The ferry company runs boats between the two islands during summer.
transitive: run something along a route
A thick black cable runs from the generator to each building on the farm.
The delivery van runs between the warehouse and shops every morning.
- run along
- run through
- run from...to...
- run between
Grammar Patterns
run + adverb/preposition
run something + adverb/preposition
Usage Note
Frequently used with prepositions of direction (along, through, from...to, between). The intransitive form describes the route itself; the transitive form describes the company or person operating the service on that route.
Common Mistakes
8. to work or operate correctly — used for machines, engines, computers, software,
to work or operate correctly — used for machines, engines, computers, software, and other devices that perform their intended function.
The old fridge in the garage still runs on electricity from a long cord.
intransitive: a machine runs (works)
Tamar ran a virus scan on her laptop before opening the email attachment.
transitive: run software/program
The factory machines run twenty-four hours a day during the busy season.
Mira's watch runs on a small battery that lasts for about two years.
Quan ran the video through editing software to fix the sound quality.
transitive: run media through software
- run on electricity/battery/power
- run software/a program
- run smoothly
- run (a machine)
Grammar Patterns
run (intransitive — machine/device works)
run something (transitive — operate a machine/program)
Usage Note
Commonly used for electronic devices, software, and machinery. In computing, 'run' specifically means to start and execute a program or command. When describing computers, 'run on' indicates the operating system (runs on Windows) or power source (runs on batteries).
Common Mistakes
9. to have the main responsibility for a business, organization, or activity — deci
to have the main responsibility for a business, organization, or activity — deciding how it works and guiding its direction.
Felix runs a small bakery with only three employees in the city centre.
run + noun phrase (business)
The theatre group is run entirely by volunteers who also perform on stage.
passive: be run by [person/group]
Devika runs the training department for a large technology company.
The community centre is run by a group of local residents.
Sirin runs a language school that teaches four different languages.
- run a business
- run a company
- run a shop/restaurant/hotel
- run an organization
Grammar Patterns
run + noun phrase (business/organization/activity)
Usage Note
Subject is usually a person or group. Frequently used in the passive voice (be run by). This sense is less formal than 'manage' or 'direct' — 'run a business' is the everyday way to say it in conversation.
Common Mistakes
10. to control an organization, situation, or group of people in a strict and exact
to control an organization, situation, or group of people in a strict and exact way, with close attention to rules, timing, and quality.
The head teacher runs the school with strict rules and a clear daily routine.
run + noun phrase + with + adverb phrase (manner)
Ayana runs her kitchen with careful planning and every ingredient in its place.
The coach runs the team on a very tight schedule from sunrise to sunset.
run + noun phrase + on + schedule
Brooke runs the project with such discipline that deadlines are always met.
- run a tight ship
- run with discipline
- run on a tight schedule
- run strictly
- control strictly
more explicit about the level of control
- oversee firmly
more formal; used in professional contexts
- manage tightly
combines the idea of management with strictness
Grammar Patterns
run something + adverb/preposition phrase (manner)
Usage Note
Often appears in the fixed expression 'run a tight ship'. The emphasis is on the strict method of control rather than the simple fact of being in charge — distinguish this from sense 9 (MANAGE), which focuses on general responsibility rather than strictness.
11. to have and use a car or other vehicle, covering all the expenses it needs — lik
to have and use a car or other vehicle, covering all the expenses it needs — like fuel, repairs, insurance, and taxes.
Running an old car can be expensive because replacement parts cost a lot.
it costs [money] to run a car
Kwame calculated how much it costs to run his motorcycle each month.
Many city families choose not to run a car because parking fees are high.
Vinícius runs a small electric scooter that is cheap to charge at home.
run a [type of] vehicle
The company pays a monthly allowance to staff who run their own cars.
- run a car
- cost to run
- afford to run
- run a vehicle
- keep a car
similar meaning, slightly less common
- own and maintain (a vehicle)
more formal and explanatory
Grammar Patterns
run a car/vehicle
Usage Note
Informal. 'Run a car' refers to the ongoing cost and responsibility of ownership, not just driving it somewhere. Not used for bicycles or public transport — use 'ride' for bicycles and 'use' for buses or trains.
Common Mistakes
12. to organize and manage your daily life, household, or personal work in a particu
to organize and manage your daily life, household, or personal work in a particular way — for example, arranging schedules, budgets, and routines.
The Watanabe family runs their household on a very strict monthly budget.
run + household + adverb phrase
Anthony runs his working day according to a detailed schedule he prepares.
After the divorce, Élise had to learn how to run the home by herself.
run + home (household management)
Many young couples learn to run a home while both hold full-time jobs.
Caio runs his mornings on a simple routine of exercise and breakfast.
- run a household
- run your life
- run a home
- run (one's) day/schedule
- organize
more general; 'organize your life' covers planning without the sense of ongoing operation
- manage (your time/life)
overlaps in meaning; 'manage' sounds slightly more formal
- arrange
focuses on planning rather than the ongoing routine
Grammar Patterns
run + abstract noun phrase (household/life/schedule)
Usage Note
The object is abstract — a household, a life, a day, a home. Unlike sense 9 (MANAGE), this sense is not about commercial businesses. Distinguish from sense 10 (CONTROL FIRMLY), which emphasizes strictness; this sense is about practical organization without implying strictness.
Common Mistakes
13. When a liquid runs, it moves from one place to another on its own. If you run a
When a liquid runs, it moves from one place to another on its own. If you run a liquid, you cause it to move, for example by turning on a tap.
Ishaan turned on the tap and let the water run into the sink.
let + noun + run + preposition for causing flow
Isabela's nose was running because she had caught a bad cold.
body part + is running for bodily fluids
The stream ran through the garden after two days of heavy rain.
Stefan ran hot water from the kettle into a large teapot.
Sweat ran down the runner's face as she crossed the finish line.
- run with
- run into
- run down
- run from
- stop
used for both the liquid itself and the action of causing flow
Grammar Patterns
noun + run (intransitive)
run + noun + prepositional phrase
Usage Note
Subject can be either the liquid itself (intransitive) or a person causing the flow (transitive). The continuous form is very common for bodily fluids: 'my nose is running', 'sweat was running down his back.'
Common Mistakes
14. When dye in a garment leaves the fabric during washing and spreads onto surround
When dye in a garment leaves the fabric during washing and spreads onto surrounding items or other parts of the same item, the colour is said to run.
Christopher washed a red shirt with white towels, and the colour ran onto them.
colour + run onto [fabric]
The care label says to wash in cold water so the dye does not run.
Yasmin always separates her laundry because dark colours tend to run.
colours + tend to run
Léa was disappointed when the blue ink from her new jeans ran into her cream-coloured dress.
- colour runs
- dye runs
- run onto
- run into
- tend to run
Grammar Patterns
colour/ dye + run
Usage Note
The subject is the colour or dye itself, not the piece of clothing. Use a colour word (e.g. 'the red ran') or 'the dye' as the subject. British English also uses 'bleed' for the same meaning.
15. To reach or be in a particular state or condition — for example, a river running
To reach or be in a particular state or condition — for example, a river running dry, supplies running low, or feelings running deep. Often describes undesirable or extreme changes.
The river ran dry after three summers without enough rain.
run + dry for change to an undesirable state
Lakan noticed that food supplies were running low in the village shop.
If the meeting runs long, the children will have to wait at the reception desk.
Emotions ran high among the crowd waiting for the election results.
The manager's patience was running thin after three hours of arguments.
collocation: patience + run + thin
- run dry
- run low
- run high
- run short
- run deep
- run thin
- run wild
Grammar Patterns
run + adjective
Usage Note
Only takes an adjective complement, never a noun phrase. The most common pairings involve dry, low, high, short, deep, wild, thin, and rampant. This pattern is especially frequent in continuous form (running + adjective).
Common Mistakes
16. When a pair of tights or stockings develops a thin vertical line of broken threa
When a pair of tights or stockings develops a thin vertical line of broken threads because the fabric has been caught or stretched too much, the garment is said to have run.
Élise noticed her tights had run just as she arrived at the birthday party.
Darius caught his sock on a loose nail, and it ran all the way up.
The stockings were expensive, but they ran the first time Jisoo wore them.
tights/stockings + run (intransitive)
If you wash tights with a zipper, they often run in the machine.
- tights run
- stockings run
- sock runs
Grammar Patterns
tights/ stockings + run
Usage Note
British English uses 'ladder' (verb and noun) for the same concept. 'Run' for this meaning is more common in American English. The resulting hole is also called a 'run' (noun, sense 11).
17. To publish or broadcast something such as a news story, article, photograph, or
To publish or broadcast something such as a news story, article, photograph, or advertisement in a newspaper, magazine, or on television.
The local newspaper ran a story about the new hospital opening.
run + a story / an article
That television channel ran the same car advertisement every evening for a month.
All the major fashion magazines ran photos of the awards ceremony.
Hari's letter to the editor was run in the Sunday edition of the paper.
passive: be + run + in [publication]
- run a story
- run an article
- run an advertisement
- run a photograph
- run in
Grammar Patterns
run + a story/ an article/ an advertisement/ a photo
Usage Note
The subject is the media outlet (newspaper, magazine, TV station, website), not the author of the content. Frequently passive when the focus is on the content itself. Also used for online articles and blog posts.
Common Mistakes
18. To be published or broadcast in newspapers, magazines, or on television — used w
To be published or broadcast in newspapers, magazines, or on television — used when the content itself is the subject of the sentence.
A photo of the winning team ran in several national newspapers.
photo / story + run + in [publication]
The story about the earthquake ran on the front page of the morning paper.
Iris's recipe for vegan curry ran in the food magazine last spring.
A short interview with the artist ran between the evening news programmes.
- run in
- run on
- run between
- appear
more general and widely used across all media contexts
- be featured
suggests prominence or special treatment; more formal
Grammar Patterns
story/ article/ photo + run + in/ on [medium]
Usage Note
Distinguish from sense 17 (PUBLISH): in this sense the content itself (story, photo, article) is the grammatical subject and the sentence is intransitive. In sense 17, a person or organization is the subject and takes a direct object.
19. (of a film, play, or television programme) to be shown or performed at a particu
(of a film, play, or television programme) to be shown or performed at a particular venue so that people can go and watch it.
The new nature documentary is running at the city cinema all week.
run + at [location] for duration
Élise called the theater to ask which films were running that evening.
question form with be running
The musical ran for three years on Broadway before moving to London.
A classic horror film runs at the old cinema every Halloween night.
The show ran for only six episodes before the network canceled it.
run + for [number] [time unit]
- run at [theatre/cinema]
- run for [period]
- run on [channel/platform]
Grammar Patterns
film/play + run + at/in [location]
run + for [duration]
Usage Note
The subject is always a film, play, TV show, or similar entertainment; people do not 'run' in this sense.
Common Mistakes
20. to try to win a public political office by asking voters to choose you in an ele
to try to win a public political office by asking voters to choose you in an election where ballots are cast.
Arjun decided to run for city council after years of volunteer work.
run + for + [elected office]
Hugo ran for governor twice but lost both times by a small margin of votes.
Many young people are running for local office across the country this year.
Beatriz announced that she would run for the state senate seat in the primary election.
run + for + [specific seat] adjusted for ballots
The senator decided not to run in the general election after thirty years in office.
run + in + [election type]
- run for [office]
- run in [election]
- decide to run
- plan to run
- stand for
British English equivalent; less common in American English
- campaign for
emphasizes the active effort to get votes rather than just being a candidate
Grammar Patterns
run + for + [position]
run + in + [election name]
Usage Note
Frequently followed by 'for' plus the position sought. In British English, 'stand for' is more common than 'run for'.
Common Mistakes
21. to suggest and actively support someone's name as a candidate in an election, es
to suggest and actively support someone's name as a candidate in an election, especially by a political party or group.
The local party voted to run Yasmin as their candidate for city council.
run + [person] + as + [candidate]
The committee ran three candidates in the primary election this year.
The county party ran David for mayor even though he had never held office.
run + [person] + for + [position]
The student group is running Aylin for class president this semester.
- run [someone] as [candidate]
- run [someone] for [office]
Grammar Patterns
run + [someone] + as + [candidate]
run + [someone] + for + [position]
Usage Note
The subject is a party, committee, or group; the object is the person being put forward. Distinguish from sense 20, where a person runs themselves.
Common Mistakes
22. to try to get a particular role or position within a group, committee, or organi
to try to get a particular role or position within a group, committee, or organization, whether by a vote of members or by an appointment process.
Kenji is running for the position of student union president this spring.
run + for + [specific title in organization]
Several local artists are running for a seat on the community arts board.
Lien decided to run for club treasurer after the current one stepped down.
Alejandra is running for a position on the hospital's ethics committee.
run + for + a [committee/organization position]
The vice principal is running for the head teacher role at the school.
- run for [position/title]
- run unopposed for
- run for re-election
Grammar Patterns
run + for + [specific position/title]
Usage Note
Unlike sense 20 (ELECTION), which involves a formal public election where voters cast ballots, this sense applies to positions within organizations, committees, clubs, or schools — filled by member votes, appointments, or internal selection processes.
Common Mistakes
23. to secretly move weapons, drugs, or other illegal goods across borders or betwee
to secretly move weapons, drugs, or other illegal goods across borders or between countries, often as part of criminal trade.
The men were arrested for running guns across the border into the next country.
run + [illegal goods] + across + [border]
Customs officers found a group running stolen diamonds out of the country.
The gang had been running drugs from the coast to the capital for years.
run + [goods] + from [place] + to [place]
Yael was caught trying to run illegal cigarettes through the port last month.
- run guns
- run drugs
- run [goods] across [border]
Grammar Patterns
run + [illegal goods] + [preposition] + [place]
Usage Note
Almost always takes a direct object naming the illegal goods. Used especially for weapons, drugs, alcohol, and other contraband. 'Smuggle' is more neutral and broader; 'run' in this sense has a more informal, criminal-trade flavour.
Common Mistakes
24. to have a particular price; to be sold for a stated amount of money, often when
to have a particular price; to be sold for a stated amount of money, often when that amount is quite high.
The new laptop runs about thirty thousand dollars in most electronics stores.
run + about [amount]
A monthly train pass runs around two hundred dollars in this city.
The wedding reception ran them over fifty thousand dollars in the end.
run + [someone] + [amount] (ditransitive)
Ayana was surprised that the concert tickets ran almost three hundred each.
The repairs on the old house ran at nearly ten thousand dollars total.
run + at + [price]
- run [someone] [amount]
- run at [price]
- run about/around [amount]
Grammar Patterns
run + [someone] + [amount]
run + at + [price]
Usage Note
Informal; more common in American English than British English. Often used when the price is high or surprising. Can be transitive (run someone an amount) or intransitive with 'at' (run at a price).
Common Mistakes
25. to provide a service, an item, or help to someone by making it available or doin
to provide a service, an item, or help to someone by making it available or doing it for them
The hotel staff ran a hot bath for Rania after her long flight.
double object: run + someone + something
Could you run an errand for me and pick up some milk?
Asher ran a credit check on the apartment before signing the lease.
run + a credit check / background check
The cafe runs a free shuttle service for customers in the area.
Élise ran a background check on the new babysitter before hiring her.
- run someone a bath
- run an errand
- run a check
- run a service
Grammar Patterns
run + someone + something
run + something + for + someone
Usage Note
Often uses the double-object pattern: run + someone + something (e.g. run me a bath, run him a credit check). The person receiving the service is required in this structure.
Common Mistakes
26. to stay in operation, remain usable, or keep happening for a specific length of
to stay in operation, remain usable, or keep happening for a specific length of time
The employment contract runs for two years with an option to renew.
run + for + period of time
That musical has been running at the Lyceum Theater since last March.
Her gym membership runs from January to December each year.
run + from + time + to + time
The special discount runs until the end of this month only.
The training course runs for ten weeks every autumn semester.
- run for a period
- run from...to...
- run until
- run throughout
Grammar Patterns
run + for + period of time
run + from + time + to + time
run + until + time
Usage Note
Subject is typically a contract, ticket, offer, play, membership, or official period. The sense emphasises a planned or scheduled duration. Frequently passive only in the sense of 'be run' (e.g. The course is run twice a year).
Common Mistakes
27. to perform a scientific, medical, or technical procedure that follows a set plan
to perform a scientific, medical, or technical procedure that follows a set plan
The lab technician ran a blood test on every patient this morning.
run + a test / an experiment / a trial
Rohan ran several experiments on the samples before presenting his findings.
Yael ran a virus scan on her laptop after the system crashed.
The research team is running a series of trials on the new vaccine.
Kofi ran a quick diagnostic test on the engine before the race.
- run a test
- run an experiment
- run a trial
- run a scan
- run a diagnostic
Grammar Patterns
run + a test
run + an experiment
run + a trial
Usage Note
Object is typically a test, experiment, trial, scan, or diagnostic. Common in medical, computing, and scientific contexts. Not used for educational exams — use give, administer, or sit for those.
Common Mistakes
run across
phrasal verbTo meet or find someone or something by chance.
I ran across an old friend at the supermarket yesterday.
While cleaning the attic, she ran across her grandmother's letters.
run after
phrasal verbTo chase someone or something, or to try to get someone's attention or affection.
The dog ran after the car but couldn't catch it.
She spent years running after a career that never satisfied her.
run along
phrasal verbTo leave or go away, often used to tell someone to go away politely.
It's getting late, so you should run along home now.
The teacher told the children to run along and play outside.
run around with
phrasal verbTo spend a lot of time with someone, especially a group of friends.
He runs around with a group of musicians from the local band.
She used to run around with a bad crowd in high school.
run at
phrasal verbTo move quickly towards someone or something, often to attack them.
The bull ran at the matador during the bullfight.
The child ran at his mother with open arms.
run away
phrasal verbTo leave a place secretly, especially to escape from something unpleasant.
The teenager ran away from home after a big argument.
The cat ran away when the door was left open.
run away from
phrasal verbTo avoid dealing with a difficult situation or problem.
You can't run away from your responsibilities forever.
He ran away from the problem instead of facing it.
run away with
phrasal verbTo leave a place secretly with someone, especially to get married or have a relationship.
The princess ran away with a commoner against her father's wishes.
They ran away with each other to Las Vegas.
run away with you
phrasal verbTo make you believe something that is not true, or to cause you to lose control of your emotions.
Don't let your imagination run away with you; it's just a noise.
His anger ran away with him and he said things he regretted.
run back over
phrasal verbTo review or think about something again, especially to check details.
Let's run back over the plan to make sure we haven't missed anything.
She ran back over her notes before the exam.
run by
phrasal verbTo tell someone about an idea or plan to get their opinion.
I have a proposal I'd like to run by you.
Let me run this design by the client before we proceed.
run down
phrasal verbTo criticize someone or something in an unfair way, or to lose energy or power.
He's always running down his coworkers behind their backs.
The battery in my phone has run down again.
run in
phrasal verbTo use a new engine or machine gently for a period so it works well later.
You should run in a new car engine for the first 500 miles.
The mechanic said to run in the lawnmower slowly.
run into
phrasal verbTo meet someone unexpectedly, or to hit something with a vehicle.
I ran into my old neighbor at the grocery store.
The driver ran into a tree because of the icy road.
run off
phrasal verbTo leave quickly, or to produce copies of something using a machine.
The thief ran off when he heard the alarm.
Could you run off 20 copies of this document?
run off with
phrasal verbTo steal something and leave with it, or to leave secretly with someone.
The accountant ran off with the company's money.
She ran off with her best friend's husband.
run on
phrasal verbTo continue for longer than expected, or to be powered by a particular fuel.
The meeting ran on for an extra hour.
This car runs on electricity, not gasoline.
run out
phrasal verbTo have no more of something left, or to come to an end.
We ran out of milk, so I need to buy some.
Time is running out for us to finish the project.
run out on
phrasal verbTo leave someone you have a responsibility to, especially a partner or family.
He ran out on his wife and children without any explanation.
She felt abandoned when her friend ran out on her during a crisis.
run over
phrasal verbTo hit someone or something with a vehicle and drive over them, or to go beyond a limit.
The car ran over a nail and got a flat tire.
The lecture ran over by ten minutes.
run past
phrasal verbTo tell someone about an idea or plan to get their opinion, similar to 'run by'.
I want to run this idea past you before the meeting.
She ran the proposal past her boss for approval.
run through
phrasal verbTo practice or review something quickly, or to use a lot of something.
Let's run through the dance one more time before the show.
He ran through his entire savings in just a few months.
run to
phrasal verbTo reach a particular amount or level, or to go to someone for help.
The total cost runs to over a thousand dollars.
Whenever she has a problem, she runs to her mother.
run up
phrasal verbTo increase a debt or bill quickly, or to raise something quickly.
He ran up a huge credit card debt buying gadgets.
They ran up a flag on the pole to celebrate.
run up against
phrasal verbTo encounter a problem or difficulty unexpectedly.
The project ran up against a lack of funding.
We ran up against strong opposition from the local community.
run with
phrasal verbTo accept and develop an idea or plan enthusiastically.
The team liked my suggestion and decided to run with it.
She ran with the concept and created a successful business.
come running
idiomTo be very willing to do what someone wants, especially when they ask for help.
Whenever Lisa needs help, her brother comes running.
If you call the dog, it will come running immediately.
run for it
idiomTo run quickly in order to escape from a dangerous situation or person.
When the guard turned away, the prisoner decided to run for it.
The kids saw the angry dog and had to run for it.
To treat someone badly and without respect, ignoring their feelings or opinions.
The new manager ran roughshod over the team's suggestions.
He ran roughshod over his colleagues to get the promotion.
up and running
idiomWorking correctly and fully operational, especially after a period of setup or repair.
The new website is up and running after weeks of testing.
Once the generator is up and running, we will have power.
run — noun
- runsingular
- runsplural
1. the physical activity of moving your legs quickly so that for a moment both feet
the physical activity of moving your legs quickly so that for a moment both feet leave the ground, done for sport, exercise, or to get somewhere fast.
Faisal goes for a run every morning before breakfast.
go for a run — common collocation for running as exercise
The coach asked the team to do a warm-up run around the field before practice.
Sayaka's first marathon run took her just under four hours.
marathon run — specific distance run
After weeks of training, Hugo completed his longest run — fifteen kilometres.
A short run along the beach helped Lotte clear her mind before the exam.
- go for a run
- warm-up run
- training run
- long run
- morning run
- walk
moving at a slower pace with one foot always on the ground
Common Mistakes
2. a journey taken in a vehicle, especially one made regularly or along a fixed rou
a journey taken in a vehicle, especially one made regularly or along a fixed route.
The bus run from the village to the nearest town takes about an hour.
bus run — fixed-route journey
We took a scenic train run through the mountains during our holiday in Switzerland.
The ferry makes three runs across the river every morning before lunch.
Quan's daily run to the office is thirty minutes by subway.
daily run — regular commute
- bus run
- train run
- ferry run
- daily run
- scenic run
3. a continuous series of performances of a play, film, or show in one place over a
a continuous series of performances of a play, film, or show in one place over a period of time.
The play had a successful run of six months at the National Theatre in London.
successful run [of duration] — theatre idiom
Christopher's one-man show enjoyed a longer run than anyone had expected.
The film's initial run in cinemas lasted only three weeks before it was replaced.
During its Broadway run, the musical was seen by over half a million people.
Broadway run — specific to New York theatre district
- successful run
- Broadway run
- initial run
- extend the run
- season
often refers to a planned series of performances over a specific period, usually a few months
- engagement
a more formal term for a booked series of performances
4. a situation where many people suddenly try to buy the same product or service at
a situation where many people suddenly try to buy the same product or service at once, causing a period of very strong demand.
There was a sudden run on bottled water when the storm warning was announced.
run on + [product] — buying spree collocation
The new gaming console caused a massive run at electronics stores across the city.
A run on the bank occurred when customers heard about its financial troubles.
run on the bank — banking crisis term
The limited-edition shoes created a run that sold out within minutes online.
- run on
- sudden run
- massive run
- run on the bank
Grammar Patterns
run on + product
Usage Note
Often used in finance contexts: 'a run on a bank' describes a panic where many depositors withdraw money at once, which can cause the bank to collapse.
Common Mistakes
5. a situation where many people quickly sell a particular investment or asset, usu
a situation where many people quickly sell a particular investment or asset, usually because they fear its value will drop.
A run on the company's shares caused the stock price to fall sharply that afternoon.
run on [shares/shares] — selling panic in finance
Investors started a run on government bonds after the disappointing economic report.
The run on technology stocks lasted for several days before the market calmed down.
Fear of rising interest rates triggered a run in the currency market last week.
run in the [market] — alternative pattern for selling pressure
- run on shares
- run on bonds
- run on stocks
- trigger a run
- sell-off
a period of heavy selling, but 'sell-off' is a noun compound rather than 'run on + object'
- buying spree
the opposite situation — a rush to purchase
Grammar Patterns
run on + investment
Usage Note
Distinguish from sense 4 (BUY): sense 4 describes people rushing to BUY something (e.g. a product or bank deposit), while sense 5 describes people rushing to SELL something (e.g. shares or bonds).
Common Mistakes
6. a stretch of time in which the same kind of event or condition keeps happening w
a stretch of time in which the same kind of event or condition keeps happening without a break.
The team enjoyed a remarkable run of ten straight victories this season.
run of [number] + [noun] — series pattern
After a long run of hot weather, the farmers were relieved when rain finally came.
The factory completed a production run of five thousand units last month.
production run — manufacturing context
Selim's run of good luck ended when he lost his wallet on the train.
run of good/bad luck — common fixed phrase
The printer can handle a print run of two hundred pages without needing more paper.
- run of good luck
- run of bad weather
- production run
- print run
- winning run
Grammar Patterns
run of + noun
Usage Note
Often followed by 'of + noun phrase' to specify what is continuing: 'a run of bad weather', 'a run of good results'. Common in business ('production run', 'print run') and everyday contexts ('run of luck').
7. a quick sequence of musical notes moving step by step up or down within a musica
a quick sequence of musical notes moving step by step up or down within a musical scale, performed rapidly as a connected series
Tariq played a fast run of notes on the piano during the jazz solo.
run of notes — standard collocation
The singer added a beautiful run at the end of the chorus for the audience.
In the final movement, the violinist performed a difficult run up the scale.
run up/down the scale — typical direction phrase
Wei practised the same run of notes ten times until it sounded completely smooth.
- run of notes
- run up the scale
- run down the scale
- fast run
- difficult run
- scale passage
more formal, used in classical music writing
- flourish
suggests a decorative, showy run, often improvised
Grammar Patterns
run of notes
run up/down the scale
Usage Note
Often used in music teaching and performance reviews to describe a fast, connected series of notes within a single scale.
8. the usual or standard kind of something, rather than a special, unusual, or high
the usual or standard kind of something, rather than a special, unusual, or high-quality version of it
Their new tablet costs more than the run of similar devices on the market.
the run of [plural noun] — pattern for 'ordinary type'
The exhibition was far more exciting than the run of art shows Eliska usually visits.
This restaurant serves food that is well above the run of fast-food places nearby.
above/below the run of — comparative structure
The album's songs differ from the run of pop music you hear daily.
- the run of
- above the run of
- different from the run of
- exception
something that stands out from the ordinary type
Grammar Patterns
the run of [plural noun]
Usage Note
Almost always appears in the phrase 'the run of something', often with a comparative (above, below, different from) that contrasts something with the usual type.
9. a fenced outdoor space where farm animals such as chickens, sheep, or pigs are k
a fenced outdoor space where farm animals such as chickens, sheep, or pigs are kept and allowed to move around
The farmer built a new run for the chickens next to the barn.
run for [animals] — purpose construction
Adisa checked the run every morning to make sure the hens had fresh water.
The children helped clean out the rabbit run and refill the hay in the hutch.
[animal] + run — compound noun pattern
The sheep stayed inside their run while the dogs guarded the outer gate.
- chicken run
- rabbit run
- sheep run
- run for
- clean the run
Grammar Patterns
run for [animals]
[animal] run
Usage Note
Used mainly for poultry (chickens, hens) and small farm or pet animals (rabbits, sheep). Does not refer to barns or indoor housing.
10. a point earned in baseball or cricket when a player successfully reaches a scori
a point earned in baseball or cricket when a player successfully reaches a scoring area after running around the field
Quan scored the winning run in the bottom of the ninth inning.
score a run / winning run — key collocations
The crowd cheered loudly when the batter hit the ball and scored a run.
With two runs already on the board, the team needed only one more to win.
runs on the board — cricket/baseball expression
In cricket, a batsman can score multiple runs from a single hit to the boundary.
- score a run
- winning run
- runs on the board
- home run
- lead-off run
- point
general term; 'run' is the specific term in baseball and cricket
Grammar Patterns
score a run
winning run
Usage Note
In cricket, 'runs' can be scored in numbers from one hit (a single, double, etc.); in baseball, one 'run' equals one point and requires touching all four bases.
11. a long, narrow tear in knitted clothing such as stockings or tights, caused when
a long, narrow tear in knitted clothing such as stockings or tights, caused when a single stitch breaks and the stitches above it come undone
Maeve noticed a run in her stockings just before the job interview started.
a run in [garment] — standard pattern
The wool caught on a nail and left a long run down her tights.
Sana tried to stop the run from spreading by putting clear nail polish on it.
stop a run from spreading — problem-solving phrase
A small snag can quickly turn into a large run in delicate knitted fabric.
- a run in
- long run
- stop a run
- run in stockings
- run in tights
Grammar Patterns
a run in [garment]
Usage Note
This sense is more common in British English; American English prefers 'ladder' for the same meaning. Used mainly for tights, stockings, and thin knitted garments.
12. a common stomach problem in which a person has to go to the toilet very often wi
a common stomach problem in which a person has to go to the toilet very often with watery waste, sometimes informally called 'the runs'
The child had the runs after eating too many sweets at the birthday party.
have the runs — informal fixed phrase
Felipe got a bad run of the stomach from food that was not cooked properly.
The doctor said the run would pass within a day if he drank enough water.
Sofie felt weak after three days of the runs and went to see the pharmacist.
the runs — always with 'the' and plural verb
- have the runs
- get the runs
- the runs
- a run of the stomach
- bad run
- diarrhoea
the formal medical term; 'the runs' is informal but far more common in casual speech
Grammar Patterns
have the runs
a run of the stomach
Usage Note
Always appears as 'the runs' (plural, with the definite article) in the common phrase for diarrhoea. Sometimes used as 'a run of the stomach'. Informal register — avoid in formal writing or medical contexts.
13. An event in which people compete by running a set distance, often organised for
An event in which people compete by running a set distance, often organised for charity or as a community activity.
Over two thousand people signed up for the charity run in March.
collocation: charity run / fun run
Michael finished third in the five-kilometre run last Saturday.
The annual fun run raises money for the local food bank.
Bilal trained for months before the community run along the river.
Each run starts and ends at the same spot near the park gate.
- fun run
- charity run
- practice run
- training run
- five-kilometre run
Grammar Patterns
run + [distance]
charity run / fun run
14. The freedom to move anywhere inside a building, area, or system without being bl
The freedom to move anywhere inside a building, area, or system without being blocked or stopped.
The hotel guests had the run of the private beach all week.
collocation: have the run of [place]
Élise was given the run of the research lab after regular hours.
passive: be given the run of [place]
The stray cat had the run of the old warehouse near the docks.
Baraka's new contract gives him the run of the company gym.
During the heatwave, the children had the run of the pool.
- have the run of
- give someone the run of
- the run of the house
Grammar Patterns
have the run of [place]
be given the run of [place]
Usage Note
Only used in the singular. Almost always follows the pattern 'have the run of' followed by a place or area.
Common Mistakes
15. A narrow flow of water that moves naturally over land, smaller than a river.
A narrow flow of water that moves naturally over land, smaller than a river.
Hyun crossed the shallow run by stepping on flat stones.
collocation: shallow run
The crystal-clear run flowed through the meadow year-round.
Amihan caught small fish in the run behind her house.
After the heavy rain, the dry run filled with water again.
The old wooden bridge crossed a run that barely reached your knees.
- shallow run
- dry run
- mountain run
Usage Note
Less common in everyday speech; 'stream' or 'brook' are more frequently used. 'Run' in this sense is more common in regional or rural British English.
16. In American football, an offensive move in which the player carrying the ball ru
In American football, an offensive move in which the player carrying the ball runs forward to gain ground past the opposing team's defence.
Kenji gained twelve yards on that run past the defence.
The quarterback handed the ball off for a run up the middle.
collocation: run up the middle
Christopher's longest run of the game gained forty metres.
The coach called a run on the next play instead of a pass.
Ada watched the running back break free on a long run.
- long run
- touchdown run
- run up the middle
- run to the outside
- rushing play
the formal American football term for any running offensive move
- ground game
refers to the overall running strategy of a team rather than a single play
- pass
an offensive play in which the ball is thrown instead of carried
Usage Note
This sense is specific to American football. In other football codes (soccer, rugby) the same concept is described differently.
in the long run
idiomafter a long enough period of time; considering the final result rather than what happens now.
Learning a new language takes time, but in the long run it will open many doors for you.
The cheaper printer costs less now, but in the long run it may cost more to repair.
in the short run
idiomover a short or immediate period of time, without considering the distant future.
In the short run, renting an apartment is cheaper than buying a house.
The new policy may cause some problems in the short run, but experts say it will help the economy.
on the run
idiomtrying to escape from someone who is chasing you, especially the police; also used to mean being very busy and constantly moving.
The thief has been on the run from the police for over two weeks now.
As a nurse, Sofia is on the run all day and rarely has time for a proper lunch.
a run for your money
idiomstrong competition that tests someone's ability; also used to mean receiving good value for the price paid.
The younger player gave the champion a run for his money in the final match.
Although the hotel was expensive, the amazing view gave us a run for our money.
run — adjective
- runpositive
- runnercomparative
- runnestsuperlative
1. feeling extremely tired and short of breath after physical activity, especially
feeling extremely tired and short of breath after physical activity, especially running or other exercise.
After the charity run, Bao felt so run that he sat on the grass.
predicative: feel + run
The children were completely run after three hours of playing tag.
By the time Felix reached the finish, he was too run to speak.
too run + to-infinitive
Defne looked quite run after her early training session at the pool.
A long climb like that leaves even fit hikers feeling run.
- completely run
- so run
- too run to
- quite run
- feeling run
Grammar Patterns
be run
feel run
look run
too run + to-infinitive
Usage Note
Typically used after linking verbs such as 'be', 'feel', or 'look'; it is rarely placed directly before a noun.
Common Mistakes
Word family
Synonym discussion
Sense: verb/1
All four words describe moving faster than walking, but they differ in speed, distance, and purpose. Run (verb/1) is the general, neutral term: 'Liam runs for twenty minutes every morning.' Sprint means to run at maximum speed over a short distance — it is more intense and less sustainable than run: 'Anjali sprinted the last fifty metres to catch the train.' Jog is slower than a regular run, done for gentle exercise rather than speed: 'Sirin jogs around the park for half an hour.' Dash suggests a sudden, brief burst of speed driven by urgency: 'Keiko dashed across the street to avoid the rain.' Race implies competing against others: 'The children raced each other to the fence.' In everyday use, if you are not sure which word fits, run is almost always the safe choice.
Common collocations
Etymology
Run comes from Old English rinnan and irnan, meaning 'to run, flow, or move quickly'. These go back to Proto-Germanic rinnaną ('to flow, run'), which is related to Old Norse rinna and Gothic rinnan. By the late Middle English period, the modern form run emerged. The word's many extended meanings — managing a business, operating a machine, running for office — developed over centuries, but all trace back to the core idea of continuous, purposeful movement.