What does “On the run” mean?
"On the run" means that someone is fleeing or trying to escape from someone or something.
What context can I use the in?
Example
The criminal was on the run from the police.
Example
They went on the run after stealing the valuable artifact.
Example
The protagonist was on the run throughout the entire movie
Is “On the run” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“On the run” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “On the run” effectively in context?
You can use "On the run" to describe someone who is fleeing or trying to escape from someone or something. It implies a sense of urgency and the need to stay constantly in motion to avoid capture. For example, if you see a person running away from the police, you might say, 'Look, that person is on the run!'
- 1Crime
The criminal was on the run from the police.
- 2Adventure
They went on the run after stealing the valuable artifact.
- 3Thriller
The protagonist was on the run throughout the entire movie.
Similar phrases to “On the run”:
Running away or escaping from someone or something
Example
The suspect was fleeing from the scene of the crime.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “On the run” come from?
The origin of the phrase "On the run" is unknown.
Is “On the run” common in everyday conversation?
"On the run" is a common expression in everyday conversation. It is often used in movies, books, and news reports to describe someone who is fleeing or evading capture.
What tone does “On the run” have?
"On the run" conveys a tone of urgency and excitement. It is often used in thrilling or suspenseful situations to describe someone who is trying to escape from danger or authority.
Can “On the run” be used in informal and formal settings?
"On the run" is a relatively informal expression. It is commonly used in casual conversations, but it may also be used in more formal contexts such as news reports or legal discussions.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
"On the run" can be used by itself to convey its full meaning. For example, if someone asks you where a fugitive is, you can simply say, 'He's on the run.' However, it can also be used as part of a sentence, such as 'The suspect is on the run from the police.'
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- escaping
- running away
- trying to elude
- avoiding capture
- being pursued
Antonyms
- captured
- apprehended
- caught
- in custody
- under arrest