Understanding idioms is crucial for mastering the English language, as they add color and depth to communication. Idioms related to “running” are particularly vibrant, offering insights into various aspects of life beyond the literal act of running.
This article will explore these idioms, providing definitions, examples, and practical exercises to help learners of all levels grasp their meanings and usage. By studying these idioms, you’ll enhance your comprehension and expressive abilities, making your English more fluent and nuanced.
This article is designed for English language learners, students preparing for English proficiency exams, and anyone interested in improving their understanding and use of idiomatic expressions. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, this guide will provide valuable insights and practical exercises to help you master idioms related to “running.”
Table of Contents
- Definition of Idioms for Running
- Structural Breakdown of Running Idioms
- Types and Categories of Running Idioms
- Examples of Running Idioms
- Usage Rules for Running Idioms
- Common Mistakes with Running Idioms
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics in Running Idioms
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Conclusion
Definition of Idioms for Running
Idioms are expressions whose meanings cannot be understood from the literal definitions of the individual words. They are a type of figurative language that adds richness and color to communication.
Idioms related to “running” use the concept of running as a metaphor to describe various situations, emotions, and actions. These idioms often convey a sense of speed, urgency, avoidance, or progress.
Understanding these idioms requires grasping their figurative meaning rather than their literal interpretation.
Classification: Running idioms can be classified based on the themes they represent, such as speed, avoidance, progress, control, and risk. Each category reflects a different aspect of the metaphorical “running” experience.
Function: The primary function of running idioms is to add expressiveness and nuance to language. They allow speakers and writers to convey complex ideas and emotions in a concise and engaging way. Using idioms effectively can make communication more vivid and relatable.
Contexts: Running idioms are used in various contexts, including everyday conversations, business settings, and literary works. They are particularly common in informal communication but can also be found in more formal contexts when used appropriately to enhance the message.
Structural Breakdown of Running Idioms
The structure of running idioms can vary, but they typically involve verbs, nouns, and prepositions related to running. Understanding the structural elements can help learners identify and interpret these idioms more effectively.
Verb + Adverb/Preposition: Many running idioms consist of a verb related to running (e.g., run, sprint, dash) followed by an adverb or preposition that modifies the verb’s meaning. For example, “run away” means to escape, and “run into” means to encounter unexpectedly.
Noun Phrases: Some running idioms are noun phrases that use running as a metaphor. For example, “the home stretch” refers to the final part of a race or project, and “a running start” means an advantage or head start.
Phrasal Verbs: Running idioms often take the form of phrasal verbs, which are verbs combined with a preposition or adverb to create a new meaning. Examples include “run out of” (to exhaust a supply) and “run over” (to hit with a vehicle or to review quickly).
By analyzing the structural components of these idioms, learners can better understand their meanings and use them correctly in different contexts. Recognizing the patterns and structures helps in both comprehension and production of idiomatic language.
Types and Categories of Running Idioms
Running idioms can be categorized based on the different aspects of running they represent metaphorically. Here are some common categories:
Idioms Related to Speed and Urgency
These idioms convey a sense of quickness, immediacy, or the need to act swiftly. They often describe situations where time is of the essence or where someone is in a hurry.
Idioms Related to Avoidance and Escape
These idioms describe situations where someone is trying to avoid a problem, responsibility, or danger. They often involve the idea of fleeing or evading something unpleasant.
Idioms Related to Progress and Effort
These idioms represent the idea of making headway, overcoming obstacles, and putting in effort to achieve a goal. They often use running as a metaphor for the journey towards success.
Idioms Related to Control and Direction
These idioms involve the idea of guiding, managing, or influencing a situation. They often use running as a metaphor for steering a course or taking charge.
Idioms Related to Risk and Danger
These idioms describe situations where there is a potential for harm, loss, or failure. They often use running as a metaphor for navigating risky situations or facing threats.
Examples of Running Idioms
To further illustrate the use of running idioms, here are several examples organized by category:
Examples of Idioms Related to Speed and Urgency
These idioms are used to describe situations that require immediate action or involve a sense of urgency. They often emphasize the importance of speed and efficiency.
The following table provides a detailed list of idioms related to speed and urgency, along with their meanings and example sentences.
| Idiom | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Hit the ground running | To start something quickly and efficiently | The new CEO hit the ground running and immediately implemented several key changes. |
| Run like the wind | To run very fast | When he saw the bear, he ran like the wind. |
| Run around like a headless chicken | To be very busy and disorganized | She was running around like a headless chicken trying to get everything ready for the party. |
| On the run | Fleeing or escaping | The suspect is still on the run from the police. |
| Make a run for it | To attempt to escape | When the guards weren’t looking, he made a run for it. |
| Run a tight ship | To manage something efficiently and strictly | Our manager runs a tight ship; everything is always well-organized. |
| Run late | To be behind schedule | I’m running late for my appointment because of the traffic. |
| Running behind | To be behind schedule | We’re running behind on the project, so we need to work overtime. |
| At a run | Moving quickly | He approached the podium at a run, eager to deliver his speech. |
| Give someone a run for their money | To provide strong competition | Our team gave the champions a real run for their money. |
| Run ragged | To exhaust someone | The kids have been running me ragged all day. |
| Run interference | To obstruct or distract someone | His assistant ran interference, preventing unwanted visitors from disturbing him. |
| Run amok | To behave uncontrollably | The protesters ran amok, causing damage to property. |
| Run wild | To behave without restraint | The children ran wild in the park. |
| Run circles around someone | To outperform someone easily | Our sales team is running circles around the competition. |
| Running neck and neck | To be in a very close competition | The two candidates are running neck and neck in the polls. |
| In the long run | Eventually, over a long period of time | In the long run, investing in renewable energy will benefit everyone. |
| Run the risk | To take a chance that something bad might happen | If you drive without a license, you run the risk of getting arrested. |
| Run scared | To be very afraid or anxious | The company is running scared because of the new regulations. |
| Run for your life | To run as fast as possible to escape danger | When the building started to collapse, everyone had to run for their life. |
| Run its course | To come to a natural end | The illness has to run its course; there’s nothing more we can do. |
| Run riot | To behave in a wild and uncontrolled manner | The rumors ran riot after the announcement. |
| Run counter to | To be in opposition to | His actions run counter to the company’s policies. |
| Run afoul of | To come into conflict with | The company ran afoul of the environmental regulations. |
Examples of Idioms Related to Avoidance and Escape
These idioms are used to describe situations where someone is trying to avoid a problem, responsibility, or danger. They often involve the idea of fleeing or evading something unpleasant.
The following table provides a detailed list of idioms related to avoidance and escape, along with their meanings and example sentences.
| Idiom | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Run away from | To avoid or escape a problem or responsibility | He tends to run away from his problems instead of facing them. |
| Run for cover | To seek shelter or protection | When it started raining, we had to run for cover. |
| Run and hide | To avoid confrontation or responsibility | Instead of addressing the issue, he just wanted to run and hide. |
| Run off with | To elope or steal something | She ran off with her boyfriend to Las Vegas. |
| Run out on | To abandon someone or something | He ran out on his family, leaving them with nothing. |
| Run for the hills | To flee or escape a dangerous situation | When the rumors started, everyone wanted to run for the hills. |
| Run interference | To protect someone from criticism or attack | The PR team ran interference to protect the CEO from the scandal. |
| Run silent, run deep | To operate discreetly and avoid detection | The company decided to run silent, run deep to avoid attracting attention. |
| Run a mile | To want to avoid someone or something | I’d run a mile rather than face that angry customer. |
| Run clear of | To avoid contact with | Make sure you run clear of the electrical wires during the storm. |
| Run circles around | To outmaneuver or evade | The experienced negotiator ran circles around the inexperienced team. |
| Run interference for | To protect or defend someone by distracting or blocking | His assistant is always there to run interference for him. |
| Run from the law | To be a fugitive | The criminal has been running from the law for years. |
| Run interference against | To hinder or obstruct someone | The opposition tried to run interference against the new legislation. |
| Run from reality | To avoid facing the truth | He’s been running from reality since his business failed. |
| Run from responsibility | To avoid taking accountability for one’s actions | She always runs from responsibility, blaming others for her mistakes. |
| Run for one’s life | To escape a life-threatening situation by running | During the earthquake, people had to run for their lives. |
| Run away with the idea | To become overly enthusiastic or carried away with an idea | He ran away with the idea and started planning an elaborate party. |
| Run shy of | To avoid or shy away from something | She tends to run shy of difficult conversations. |
| Run scared of | To be afraid of or intimidated by something | The company is running scared of the new regulations. |
| Run a background check | To investigate someone’s past to uncover any potential issues | Before hiring, they decided to run a background check on all candidates. |
Examples of Idioms Related to Progress and Effort
These idioms represent the idea of making headway, overcoming obstacles, and putting in effort to achieve a goal. They often use running as a metaphor for the journey towards success.
The following table provides a detailed list of idioms related to progress and effort, along with their meanings and example sentences.
| Idiom | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Get a running start | To start something with an advantage | By preparing in advance, we can get a running start on the project. |
| Keep running | To continue making progress | Even when things get tough, you have to keep running towards your goals. |
| Running smoothly | Operating without problems | The project is running smoothly thanks to the team’s hard work. |
| Running interference | Helping someone by removing obstacles | His assistant is always running interference to help him focus on his work. |
| In the running | Having a chance of success | Our company is still in the running for the contract. |
| Make headway | To make progress | We’re finally starting to make headway on this difficult task. |
| Run up against | To encounter difficulties or opposition | We ran up against some unexpected problems during the project. |
| Running on fumes | To continue operating with very little energy or resources | I’m running on fumes; I need to get some sleep. |
| Run the show | To be in charge | She’s been running the show since the manager left. |
| Run the gamut | To encompass a wide range | The conference covered the gamut of topics in the industry. |
| Run the risk | To take a chance that something bad might happen | If you don’t study, you run the risk of failing the exam. |
| Run alongside | To support or assist | The mentors ran alongside the students, providing guidance and support. |
| Run with the ball | To take initiative and move forward with a task | The manager let the team run with the ball on the new marketing campaign. |
| Run through the tape | To achieve victory or success after a long effort | After years of hard work, she finally ran through the tape and achieved her dream. |
| Run something by someone | To share an idea or plan with someone for their feedback | I want to run my proposal by you before submitting it. |
| Run it up the flagpole | To test an idea to see if it is well-received | Let’s run it up the flagpole and see what the team thinks. |
| Run a tight race | To compete closely with others | The two candidates ran a tight race, with the results being very close. |
| Run the gauntlet | To endure a series of difficulties or challenges | The company had to run the gauntlet of regulatory approvals. |
| Run interference for | To protect someone from problems or difficulties | His secretary runs interference for him, handling all the minor issues. |
Examples of Idioms Related to Control and Direction
These idioms involve the idea of guiding, managing, or influencing a situation. They often use running as a metaphor for steering a course or taking charge.
The following table provides a detailed list of idioms related to control and direction, along with their meanings and example sentences.
| Idiom | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Run the show | To be in charge or control | Since the boss is away, Sarah is running the show. |
| Run interference | To obstruct or distract someone to protect another | His assistant runs interference to keep him from being bothered by trivial matters. |
| Run a business | To manage and operate a company | She runs a successful business in the heart of the city. |
| Run a meeting | To lead and facilitate a discussion | He runs the meeting efficiently, keeping everyone on track. |
| Run the country | To govern a nation | The president is responsible for running the country. |
| Run a campaign | To organize and execute a plan to achieve a goal | They ran a successful campaign to raise money for charity. |
| Run experiments | To conduct tests to gather data | The scientists are running experiments to find a cure for the disease. |
| Run a program | To operate and manage a set of instructions | The computer is running a program to analyze the data. |
| Run the risk | To take a chance that something unfavorable might occur | If you don’t wear a helmet, you run the risk of getting injured. |
| Run afoul of | To encounter problems or conflicts with | The company ran afoul of the environmental regulations. |
| Run something by someone | To present an idea to someone for their opinion | Can I run my proposal by you before I submit it? |
| Run with the idea | To take and develop an idea further | He ran with the idea and turned it into a successful project. |
| Run counter to | To oppose or be in conflict with something | His actions run counter to the company’s policies. |
| Run a check | To verify or examine something | The mechanic ran a check on the car’s engine. |
| Run a deficit | To spend more money than is received | The government is running a deficit this year. |
| Run a fever | To have an elevated body temperature | The child is running a fever and needs to see a doctor. |
| Run a tab | To keep a record of charges | Can you run a tab for me at the bar? |
| Run interference on | To protect someone from criticism or problems | The lawyer ran interference on behalf of his client. |
Examples of Idioms Related to Risk and Danger
These idioms describe situations where there is a potential for harm, loss, or failure. They often use running as a metaphor for navigating risky situations or facing threats.
The following table provides a detailed list of idioms related to risk and danger, along with their meanings and example sentences.
| Idiom | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Run the risk | To take a chance that something bad might happen | If you don’t save your work, you run the risk of losing it. |
| Run into trouble | To encounter problems or difficulties | They ran into trouble when they tried to cut corners on the project. |
| Run afoul of | To come into conflict with or violate a rule or law | The company ran afoul of the environmental regulations. |
| Run aground | To get stuck on land or a shallow area (often used for boats) | The ship ran aground during the storm. |
| Run a fever | To have a high body temperature, indicating illness | He started running a fever last night and feels very sick. |
| Run dry | To be completely exhausted or depleted | The well ran dry during the drought. |
| Run low | To have a limited supply of something | We’re running low on coffee; we need to buy more. |
| Run out of time | To not have enough time to complete something | We ran out of time to finish the presentation. |
| Run out of patience | To become impatient or lose tolerance | I’m running out of patience with his constant excuses. |
| Run for cover | To seek shelter or protection from danger | When the storm started, we had to run for cover. |
| Run scared | To be very afraid or anxious about something | The company is running scared because of the new competition. |
| Run into debt | To accumulate a large amount of debt | He ran into debt after losing his job. |
| Run a red light | To drive through a traffic light when it is red, which is illegal and dangerous | He ran a red light and caused an accident. |
| Run the gauntlet | To face a series of challenges or difficulties | The company had to run the gauntlet of regulatory approvals. |
| Run the risk of | To expose oneself to the possibility of danger or harm | By investing in that company, you run the risk of losing all your money. |
Usage Rules for Running Idioms
Using running idioms correctly requires understanding their specific meanings and contexts. While idioms can add richness to your language, using them inappropriately can lead to confusion or miscommunication.
Here are some key usage rules to keep in mind:
Context Matters: Pay attention to the context in which you use an idiom. Ensure that the idiom’s meaning aligns with the overall message you are trying to convey. For example, using “hit the ground running” in a situation where someone is struggling to start a project would be inappropriate.
Audience Awareness: Consider your audience when using idioms. If you are communicating with non-native speakers or individuals unfamiliar with idiomatic expressions, it’s best to avoid using them or to explain their meanings clearly. Overusing idioms can make your language sound unnatural or confusing.
Formal vs. Informal: Be mindful of the formality of the situation. Running idioms are often more common in informal conversations and writing. In formal settings, such as business presentations or academic papers, it’s best to use them sparingly and only when they enhance the clarity and impact of your message.
Correct Form: Ensure you use the correct form of the idiom. Idioms are fixed expressions, and changing their words or structure can alter their meaning or make them nonsensical. For example, “run like the wind” should not be changed to “sprint like the wind” unless you intend to convey a different meaning.
Figurative vs. Literal: Remember that idioms are figurative expressions. Avoid interpreting them literally, as this can lead to misunderstandings. Instead, focus on the overall meaning and the message the idiom is intended to convey.
Common Mistakes with Running Idioms
Learners often make common mistakes when using running idioms. Recognizing these errors can help you avoid them and use idioms more accurately:
Literal Interpretation: One of the most common mistakes is interpreting idioms literally. For example, understanding “hit the ground running” as physically hitting the ground while running, rather than starting something efficiently.
Incorrect Word Choice: Using the wrong words in an idiom can change its meaning or make it nonsensical. For example, saying “run like a cheetah” instead of “run like the wind” alters the idiom’s intended meaning.
Misunderstanding Context: Using an idiom in an inappropriate context can lead to confusion. For example, saying “run for the hills” in a situation that is only mildly inconvenient, rather than truly dangerous.
Overuse of Idioms: Overusing idioms can make your language sound unnatural or forced. Balance the use of idioms with more straightforward language to maintain clarity and flow.
Ignoring Audience: Using idioms with an audience that may not understand them can lead to miscommunication. Be mindful of your audience’s familiarity with idiomatic expressions and adjust your language accordingly.
Here are some examples of common mistakes and their corrections:
| Incorrect | Correct | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| He hit the floor running. | He hit the ground running. | The correct phrase is “hit the ground running,” not “hit the floor running.” |
| She ran like a cheetah. | She ran like the wind. | The idiom is “run like the wind,” not “run like a cheetah.” |
| I’m running out of the clock. | I’m running out of time. | The correct phrase is “running out of time,” not “running out of the clock.” |
| They ran to the hills because they didn’t like the movie. | They left the movie theater because they didn’t like the movie. | “Run for the hills” implies a dangerous or dire situation, not just disliking a movie. |
Practice Exercises
To reinforce your understanding of running idioms, try these practice exercises:
Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
Complete the following sentences with the correct running idiom from the list below. Use each idiom only once.
Idiom List: hit the ground running, run like the wind, running behind, run out of, run the risk, run the show, in the long run, run into trouble, on the run, give someone a run for their money
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. The new manager is very efficient; she ________ and has already improved several processes. | hit the ground running |
| 2. The suspect is still ________ from the police after the bank robbery. | on the run |
| 3. If you don’t wear a helmet while cycling, you ________ of getting injured. | run the risk |
| 4. We are ________ schedule with the project, so we need to work overtime this weekend. | running behind |
| 5. She ________ patience with his constant excuses and decided to end the relationship. | ran out of |
| 6. Despite being the underdogs, our team managed to ________ and almost won the championship. | give someone a run for their money |
| 7. The CEO is away, so the vice president is ________ while he’s gone. | running the show |
| 8. If you invest in that company, you might ________ if their business model fails. | run into trouble |
| 9. She ________ when she saw the bear in her backyard. | ran like the wind |
| 10. ________, investing in renewable energy will benefit future generations. | In the long run |
Exercise 2: Matching Idioms to Meanings
Match each running idiom in Column A with its correct meaning in Column B.
| Column A (Idiom) | Column B (Meaning) | Answer |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Run for cover | a. To manage something efficiently | 1. e |
| 2. Run a tight ship | b. To take a chance on a possible bad outcome | 2. a |
| 3. Run the risk | c. To escape from a dangerous situation | 3. b |
| 4. Run interference | d. To make a quick attempt to escape | 4. f |
| 5. Make a run for it | e. To seek protection from danger | 5. d |
| 6. Run for your life | f. To distract or block someone from reaching a goal | 6. c |
Exercise 3: Sentence Completion
Complete the following sentences using the provided idioms. Choose the best idiom to fit the context.
Idioms: run out of steam, running smoothly, run up against, run the gamut, run interference.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. The project was ________ until we ________ unexpected technical difficulties. | running smoothly, ran up against |
| 2. The conference topics ________ from artificial intelligence to cybersecurity. | ran the gamut |
| 3. After working on the project for months, we started to ________ and needed a break. | run out of steam |
| 4. The secretary had to ________ between the boss and the constant interruptions. | run interference |
Advanced Topics in Running Idioms
For advanced learners, exploring the nuances and origins of running idioms can provide a deeper understanding of their cultural significance and linguistic evolution. Here are some advanced topics to consider:
Etymology: Research the etymology of specific running idioms to understand their historical roots and how their meanings have evolved over time. For example, tracing the origin of “hit the ground running” can reveal insights into its earlier usage and cultural context.
Regional Variations: Explore regional variations of running idioms. Some idioms may have different meanings
or be more commonly used in certain geographic areas. Understanding these variations can enhance your ability to communicate effectively in diverse settings.
Literary Analysis: Analyze how running idioms are used in literature and media. Authors and speakers often use idioms to add depth and color to their narratives. Examining these uses can provide a deeper appreciation for the art of language.
Cross-Cultural Comparisons: Compare running idioms across different languages and cultures. Understanding how other cultures express similar ideas can provide insights into different ways of thinking and communicating.
Idiom Creation: Consider how new idioms are created and evolve over time. Language is constantly changing, and new idiomatic expressions emerge to reflect contemporary culture and experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some frequently asked questions about running idioms:
What is the best way to learn running idioms?
The best way to learn running idioms is through a combination of study and practice. Start by understanding the definitions and meanings of common idioms, then practice using them in context through exercises and real-life conversations.
Reading books, articles, and watching movies can also help you encounter idioms in natural settings.
How can I avoid misusing running idioms?
To avoid misusing running idioms, pay close attention to their specific meanings and contexts. Use them in situations where their figurative meaning aligns with your intended message.
If you’re unsure about an idiom’s meaning or usage, it’s best to avoid using it or to double-check its definition.
Are running idioms common in everyday conversation?
Yes, running idioms are quite common in everyday conversation, particularly in informal settings. They add color and expressiveness to language and are often used to convey complex ideas in a concise and engaging way.
Can I use running idioms in formal writing?
While running idioms are more common in informal communication, they can be used in formal writing when appropriate. Use them sparingly and only when they enhance the clarity and impact of your message.
Avoid overusing idioms in formal settings, as this can make your writing sound unnatural or forced.
How do I explain the meaning of a running idiom to a non-native speaker?
When explaining the meaning of a running idiom to a non-native speaker, start by providing a simple definition of the idiom’s figurative meaning. Then, give an example sentence to illustrate how the idiom is used in context.
If possible, relate the idiom to a similar expression in their native language to help them understand its meaning more effectively.
Conclusion
Mastering idioms related to running can significantly enhance your English language skills, adding depth, color, and nuance to your communication. By understanding the definitions, structures, and usage rules of these idioms, you can express yourself more effectively and engage with native speakers on a deeper level.
Practice the exercises provided in this article and continue to explore new idioms to expand your vocabulary and improve your overall language proficiency. Whether you’re preparing for an exam, advancing your career, or simply enriching your understanding of English, mastering running idioms is a valuable and rewarding endeavor.
