Differences between run to and run up
Run to usually means to go quickly to a place or person, often to seek help or support, whereas run up generally means to accumulate or increase something, usually a debt or bill.
Meanings and Definitions: run to vs run up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Run to
- 1Go to someone for help.
Whenever he gets into debt, he RUNS TO his parents for help.
- 2Include in things you like.
His musical tastes RUN TO the Residents, who are hated by most people.
- 3Have enough money to buy something, often negative.
Things are a bit tight and won't RUN TO going abroad for a holiday.
Run up
- 1Move quickly to where someone is.
He RAN UP next to me and started shouting.
- 2Hoist, raise a flag.
They RAN UP the Union Jack.
- 3Do or make something very quickly.
He RAN UP a few examples for them to look at.
- 4Spend a lot of money on credit.
He RAN UP a lot of bills at the hotel.
Usage Examples: run to, run up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
run to
Example
Whenever she has a problem, she runs to her best friend for advice.
Example
He always runs to his parents when he needs money.
run up
Example
She ran up a list of potential candidates for the job.
Example
He runs up the stairs to catch the bus.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Run to
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Run up
rack up
To accumulate or increase something, usually a debt or bill.
Example
He racked up a huge credit card bill during his vacation.
build up
To gradually accumulate or increase something over time.
Example
She had to build up her savings before she could afford to buy a house.
To become subject to or liable for something, usually a debt or expense.
Example
The company incurred significant losses due to the pandemic.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “run”
Phrasal Verbs with “up”
Differences in run to vs run up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: run to or run up?
In daily conversation, people use run up more often than run to. This is because run up is used for more financial situations such as bills or debts. Run to is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about seeking help or support. So, while both phrases are used, run up is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of run to and run up
Run to and run up 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 to and run up
The tone of run to and run up can differ based on context. Run to often carries an urgent or desperate tone when related to seeking help or support, while run up typically has a negative or regretful tone, especially when referring to accumulating debt or bills.
run to & run up: Synonyms and Antonyms
Run to
Synonyms
- turn to
- seek help from
- rely on
- depend on
- resort to
- appeal to
- reach out to
