Differences between run down and run up against
Run down means to criticize or speak negatively about someone or something, while run up against means to encounter a difficulty or obstacle.
Meanings and Definitions: run down vs run up against
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 up against
- 1Encounter problems, often unexpected.
They RAN UP AGAINST a lot of opposition to the construction.
Usage Examples: run down, run up against 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 up against
Example
We ran up against some issues while planning the event.
Example
She runs up against problems with her computer all the time.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Run down
To speak negatively or critically about someone or something.
Example
He constantly badmouths his ex-girlfriend to anyone who will listen.
trash talk
To speak negatively or disrespectfully about someone or something, often in a competitive context.
Example
The players on the opposing team were trash talking each other before the game started.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Run up against
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “run”
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
- put down
- doss down
- track down
- pad down
- bargain down
Phrasal Verbs with “up against”
Differences in run down vs run up against: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: run down or run up against?
In daily conversation, people use run into more often than run up against. This is because run into is used for more common situations such as meeting someone unexpectedly or finding something by chance. Run up against is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about facing difficulties or obstacles. So, while both phrases are used, run into is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of run down and run up against
Run down and run up against 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 up against
The tone of run down and run up against can differ based on context. Run down often carries a negative or critical tone when related to speaking about someone or something, while run up against typically has a frustrated or challenging tone, especially when referring to encountering an obstacle or difficulty.
