What does “Run-of-the-mill” mean?
"Run-of-the-mill" means something that is ordinary or average.
What context can I use the in?
Example
I'm tired of eating run-of-the-mill sandwiches for lunch.
Example
His performance was just run-of-the-mill, nothing special.
Example
I'm looking for something more exciting than a run-of-the-mill job
Is “Run-of-the-mill” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Run-of-the-mill” 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-of-the-mill” effectively in context?
You can use "run-of-the-mill" to describe something that is ordinary or average. It implies that the thing being referred to is not particularly special or unique. For example, if someone asks you how your day was, you might say, 'It was just "run-of-the-mill", nothing out of the ordinary.'
- 1Food
I'm tired of eating run-of-the-mill sandwiches for lunch.
- 2Performance
His performance was just run-of-the-mill, nothing special.
- 3Job
I'm looking for something more exciting than a run-of-the-mill job.
Similar phrases to “Run-of-the-mill”:
Not particularly good or bad; typical
Example
The restaurant's food was average, nothing outstanding.
Commonplace; not special or unique
Example
The painting was nice, but it was quite ordinary.
Lacking embellishment or decoration; simple
Example
The dress was plain, without any fancy details.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Run-of-the-mill” come from?
The origin of the phrase "run-of-the-mill" is unknown.
Is “Run-of-the-mill” common in everyday conversation?
"Run-of-the-mill" is a common expression in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe things that are ordinary or average.
What tone does “Run-of-the-mill” have?
"Run-of-the-mill" conveys a tone of mediocrity or lack of excitement. It suggests that the thing being described is not particularly noteworthy or exceptional.
Can “Run-of-the-mill” be used in informal and formal settings?
"Run-of-the-mill" is a relatively informal expression that can be used in casual conversations with friends, family, and colleagues. However, it can also be used in more formal settings, such as professional discussions or written 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, 'The movie was "run-of-the-mill", nothing special.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Just another "run-of-the-mill" day.'
