What does “Run a mile” mean?
"Run a mile" means to quickly and eagerly avoid a situation or person.
What context can I use the in?
Example
When she saw her ex-boyfriend at the party, she ran a mile in the opposite direction.
Example
He knew he had to run a mile when his boss asked him to work overtime on the weekend.
Example
After hearing about the creepy haunted house, the kids decided to run a mile and never go near it
Is “Run a mile” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Run a mile” 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 “Run a mile” effectively in context?
You can use "Run a Mile" to describe someone's strong desire to avoid a situation or person. It implies a sense of urgency and eagerness to distance oneself from something unpleasant or undesirable. For example, if a friend tells you about a party where your ex-boyfriend will be, you might say, 'I would "run a mile" in the opposite direction if I were you.'
- 1Social Events
When she saw her ex-boyfriend at the party, she ran a mile in the opposite direction.
- 2Work
He knew he had to run a mile when his boss asked him to work overtime on the weekend.
- 3Fear or Danger
After hearing about the creepy haunted house, the kids decided to run a mile and never go near it.
Similar phrases to “Run a mile”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Run a mile” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Run a Mile" is unknown.
Is “Run a mile” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Run a Mile" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to express their strong desire to avoid a situation or person.
What tone does “Run a mile” have?
"Run a Mile" conveys a tone of urgency and eagerness. It suggests a strong aversion or fear towards something or someone.
Can “Run a mile” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "run a mile" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of quickly and eagerly avoiding a situation or person. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'She saw her ex-boyfriend and ran a mile in the opposite direction.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'I would "run a mile"!' to express a strong desire to avoid something.
