Differences between run down and run over
Run down means to criticize or speak negatively about someone or something, while run over means to hit someone or something with a vehicle.
Meanings and Definitions: run down vs run over
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Run down
- 1Hit a pedestrian with a vehicle.
The minicab RAN him DOWN on the zebra crossing.
- 2Lose energy or power.
You should only recharge the battery when it has fully RUN DOWN.
- 3Criticise, disparage.
They're always RUNNING me DOWN and I am sick and tired of it.
- 4Find the source or origin of something.
The police RAN DOWN all the leads they had and caught them.
Run over
- 1Explain quickly.
Could you RUN OVER that point again; I'm afraid I didn't quite understand it.
- 2Hit with a vehicle.
The driver couldn't stop in time and RAN the fox OVER when it ran in front of his car.
- 3Exceed a time limit.
The meeting RAN OVER by twenty minutes.
Usage Examples: run down, run over in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
run down
Example
My phone battery always runs down quickly when I use it a lot.
Example
His energy runs down quickly when he doesn't get enough sleep.
run over
Example
Be careful not to run over any small animals while driving in the countryside.
Example
He always runs over the trash cans when he backs out of the driveway.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Run down
To express disapproval or negative feedback about someone or something.
Example
She always criticizes her coworkers' work, but never offers any constructive feedback.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Run over
To collide with someone or something, usually unintentionally.
Example
The car hit the curb and damaged its tire.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “run”
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
- stare down
- choke down
- crack down
- lie down
- bargain down
Phrasal Verbs with “over”
- walk over
- put over
- make over
- watch over
- throw over
Differences in run down vs run over: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: run down or run over?
In daily conversation, people use run over more often than run down. This is because run over is used to describe accidents or incidents that happen on the road. Run down is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about criticizing someone or something. So, while both phrases are used, run over is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of run down and run over
Run down and run over 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 run down and run over
The tone of run down and run over can differ based on context. Run down often carries a negative or critical tone when related to evaluating or describing something, while run over typically has a serious and concerned tone, especially when referring to accidents or incidents.
