Help center

Phrasal verbs "cover for" vs "run for"

Differences between cover for and run for

Cover for means to take someone's place or responsibility temporarily, while run for means to compete in an election or race.

Meanings and Definitions: cover for vs run for

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Cover for

  • 1Provide an excuse or alibi.

    She asked me to COVER FOR her if anyone asked where she'd gone.

  • 2Do someone's work while they are temporarily absent.

    I COVERED FOR her while she was off sick.

Run for

  • 1Campaign for a position.

    She's thinking about RUNNING FOR the presidency.

Usage Examples: cover for, run for in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

cover for

Example

I always cover for my colleague when he is on vacation.

Example

She covers for her friend when she is sick.

run for

Example

He decided to run for mayor of the city.

Example

She runs for the school board every year.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Cover for

substitute for

To replace or act as a substitute for someone or something.

Example

I have to substitute for my colleague who is on vacation next week.

stand in for

To take someone's place temporarily, especially in a performance or event.

Example

The understudy had to stand in for the lead actor who was sick during the play.

hold the fort

To maintain control or responsibility for a situation or task while someone is absent.

Example

Can you hold the fort while I'm in a meeting? I'll be back in an hour.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Run for

compete for

To participate in a competition or contest with the goal of winning.

Example

She decided to compete for the gold medal in the upcoming Olympics.

campaign for

To actively promote oneself or a cause in an election or political campaign.

Example

He spent months campaigning for the mayoral position and finally won the election.

throw one's hat in the ring

To announce one's candidacy or intention to compete in a contest or election.

Example

After much consideration, she decided to throw her hat in the ring and run for the student council president.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “cover”

Phrasal Verbs with “run”

Differences in cover for vs run for: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: cover for or run for?

In daily conversation, people use cover for more often than run for. This is because cover for can be used in various situations, such as work or social events. On the other hand, run for is a specific phrase used only when talking about elections or races. So, while both phrases are used, cover for is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of cover for and run for

Cover for and run for are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of cover for and run for

The tone of cover for and run for can differ based on context. Cover for often carries a helpful or cooperative tone when related to taking someone's place, while run for typically has a competitive and ambitious tone, especially when referring to running for office or a race.

cover for & run for: Synonyms and Antonyms

Cover for

Synonyms

This content was generated with the assistance of AI technology based on RedKiwi's unique learning data. By utilizing automated AI content, we can quickly deliver a wide range of highly accurate content to users. Experience the benefits of AI by having your questions answered and receiving reliable information!