What does the phrasal verb “run to” mean?

What are the definitions of “run to”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Go to someone for help.

  Whenever he gets into debt, he RUNS TO his parents for help.

• 2. Include in things you like.

  His musical tastes RUN TO the Residents, who are hated by most people.

• 3. Have enough money to buy something, often negative.

  Things are a bit tight and won't RUN TO going abroad for a holiday.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “run to”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb run to is to go to someone or something for help or support. It often implies that a person relies on someone else when they face difficulties or need assistance.

What are the different verb forms of “run to”?

Root Verb	run to
Third Person Singular Present	runs to
Present Participle	running to
Simple Past	ran to
Past Participle	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.

Example

She is running to her teacher for help with her homework.

Example

Yesterday, he ran to his boss to discuss the issue.

Example

She had run to her sister for emotional support during difficult times.

What kind of phrasal verb is “run to”?

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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.)

Intransitive verb

“run to” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.

Example

Whenever he gets into debt, he runs to his parents for help.

Example

She always runs to her friends when she needs advice.

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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 to” 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

Whenever he gets into debt, he runs to his parents for help.

Example

She always runs to her friends when she needs advice.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “run to”?

Run to someone for help

Go to someone for assistance or support when facing difficulties.

Example

When she lost her job, she ran to her family for financial help.

Run to something for comfort

Turn to a specific activity or item for solace or relief.

Example

After a long day at work, he runs to his favorite book for relaxation.

Run to a certain amount

Reach a specific total or sum, often in terms of money.

Example

The cost of the project ran to several thousand dollars.

Good things to know

Does “run to” have an informal or formal tone?

Run to is generally considered neutral in terms of formality. It can be used in both informal and formal contexts, depending on the situation. For example, it may be appropriate to use run to in casual conversations with friends or family, as well as in more formal settings such as business meetings or written reports.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “run to”?

Synonyms

• turn to
• seek help from
• rely on
• depend on
• resort to
• appeal to
• reach out to

Antonyms

• avoid
• shun
• ignore
• neglect
• abandon
• reject
• fend for oneself