What are the definitions of “run for”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Campaign for a position.
She's thinking about RUNNING FOR the presidency.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “run for”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb run for is to campaign or compete for a position, usually in politics or an organization. It means that someone is trying to get elected or chosen for a specific role.
What are the different verb forms of “run for”?
| Root Verb | run for |
| Third Person Singular Present | runs for |
| Present Participle | running for |
| Simple Past | ran for |
| Past Participle | run for |
Example
He decided to run for mayor of the city.
Example
She runs for the school board every year.
Example
He is running for the student council president.
Example
Last year, she ran for the position of treasurer.
Example
He has run for office several times in the past.
What kind of phrasal verb is “run for”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“run for” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
She ran for the presidency.
Example
He ran for the position of class representative.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“run for” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She ran for the presidency.
Example
He ran for the position of class representative.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “run for”?
Good things to know
Does “run for” have an informal or formal tone?
Run for is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, such as political discussions or news reports.
