What does “Run amok” mean?

"Run amok" means to behave uncontrollably and violently.

What context can I use the in?

Example

After drinking too much, he ran amok at the party and started breaking things.

Example

The protesters ran amok in the streets, causing chaos and destruction.

Example

The toddler ran amok in the store, knocking over displays and screaming

Is “Run amok” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Run amok” 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 amok” effectively in context?

You can use "Run amok" to describe someone who is behaving in an uncontrolled and violent manner. It emphasizes the idea of losing self-control and causing chaos. For example, if a friend tells you about a party where someone started breaking things after drinking too much, you might say, 'Sounds like they really ran amok!'

1Social Gatherings
After drinking too much, he ran amok at the party and started breaking things.
2Protests or Riots
The protesters ran amok in the streets, causing chaos and destruction.
3Children's Behavior
The toddler ran amok in the store, knocking over displays and screaming.

Similar phrases to “Run amok”:

Go berserk

To become extremely angry or out of control

Example

He went berserk and started throwing things around the room.

Lose one's cool

To lose control of one's emotions or behavior

Example

She lost her cool and started yelling at everyone.

Fly off the handle

To suddenly become very angry or lose control

Example

He flew off the handle when he found out about the mistake.

Throw a tantrum

To have an outburst of anger or frustration, often in a childish manner

Example

The child threw a tantrum when she couldn't get what she wanted.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Run amok” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Run amok" can be traced back to the Malay language. In Malay culture, the term 'amok' referred to a state of uncontrollable rage or frenzy. It was believed that individuals who 'ran amok' were possessed by evil spirits or overwhelmed by intense emotions, leading them to engage in violent and destructive behavior.

Is “Run amok” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Run amok" is a well-known idiom in everyday conversation. While it may not be used as frequently as some other idioms, it is still commonly understood and used to describe situations where someone loses control and behaves violently or uncontrollably.

What tone does “Run amok” have?

"Run amok" conveys a tone of alarm or shock. It is often used to describe extreme and disruptive behavior, highlighting the seriousness and intensity of the situation.

Can “Run amok” be used in informal and formal settings?

The phrase "run amok" is more commonly used in informal settings. It is often used in casual conversations among friends or when discussing incidents of unruly behavior. However, it can also be used in more formal contexts, such as news reports or academic discussions on social behavior.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He ran amok and caused a lot of damage.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'They really "ran amok"!' to express astonishment or disbelief.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

rampage
go wild
cause havoc
create chaos
behave recklessly

Antonyms

stay calm
remain composed
control oneself
behave responsibly