run one’s name: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘run one's name’ mean?

The idiom "run one's name" means to establish or protect one's reputation or good name. It refers to taking actions to ensure that one's name is associated with positive qualities or actions.

Idiom Explorer

Empowering Personal Reputation through "Running One's Name"

Run one's name is an idiom that is commonly used in English language. It is an expression that is often used in a figurative sense rather than a literal one, and it has its roots in the legal and social contexts of the past.

The idiom "run one's name" means to establish or maintain one's reputation or good name. It refers to the actions that an individual takes in order to protect and enhance their standing and credibility in the eyes of others. This idiom is often used when someone wants to emphasize the importance of maintaining a good reputation and avoiding any actions or behaviors that could damage it.

The origins of this idiom can be traced back to the legal practices of the past, where a person's reputation and standing in society had significant implications for their social and legal status. In those times, individuals were often required to prove their good name in order to maintain their social standing and avoid legal consequences. They engaged in charitable activities, demonstrating virtuous behavior, and avoiding scandalous situations, with the goal of establishing a positive reputation and maintaining credibility.

make a name for oneself is another idiom that is closely related to "run one's name". When someone makes a name for themselves, they are establishing a reputation that sets them apart and garners recognition and success. This idiom implies that an individual has achieved something noteworthy or impressive, and has gained a positive reputation based on their accomplishments or skills.

Having one's name taken can happen when someone commits an action that damages their reputation or brings them discredit. This idiom implies that someone's reputation has been tarnished or compromised by their actions. It suggests that an individual has done something that has caused others to view them in a negative light and has brought shame or disrepute upon themselves.

Her personal reputation brought her fame and recognition.

On the other hand, one's name is mud is an idiom that conveys a similar meaning to having one's name taken. It suggests that an individual's reputation has been so severely damaged that it is beyond repair. This idiom implies that someone's actions or behavior have caused them to be viewed very negatively by others, and they are seen as disreputable or untrustworthy.

Over time, the idiom "run one's name" has evolved to encompass a broader range of actions and behaviors that individuals can undertake to protect and enhance their reputation. This can include everything from maintaining a professional and ethical approach to their work, to engaging in philanthropic activities, to actively managing their online presence and public image.

This idiom is particularly relevant in today's digital age, where an individual's reputation can be easily tarnished or enhanced by their online presence. With the increasing influence of social media and online platforms, it has become more important than ever for individuals to actively manage their online reputation and ensure that their name is associated with positive and credible information.

Make a name for oneself also holds relevance in today's society. In today's competitive world, it is essential to stand out and be recognized for one's skills and accomplishments. Whether it is in the professional world or in personal pursuits, making a name for oneself can open doors and lead to opportunities for success and growth.

Having one's name taken and one's name is mud are unfortunate situations that no one wants to find themselves in. However, it is important to remember that reputation can be rebuilt and restored with time and consistent efforts to change. It may take work to regain trust and repair one's reputation, but it is possible for individuals to overcome the negative effects of their past actions and rebuild their good name.

The idiom "run one's name" refers to the actions and behaviors individuals undertake to establish and maintain their reputation. It has its roots in the legal and social practices of the past and continues to be relevant in today's digital age. Along with related idioms like "make a name for oneself", "have one's name taken", and "one's name is mud", these expressions offer insights into the importance of reputation and the impact of one's actions and behavior on how they are perceived by others. By understanding the cultural and linguistic significance of these idioms, we can gain a deeper understanding of language and society.

Example usage

Examples of how the idiom "run one's name" can be used in a sentence:

  1. John has been working hard to run his name in the local community by volunteering for various charities.
  2. The new employee is determined to run his name in the company by consistently exceeding expectations and delivering exceptional results.
  3. After winning multiple awards for his performances, the young actor has managed to run his name in the film industry.

An idiom can be difficult to understand because its meaning is not always clear from the individual words used. In the case of the idiom "run one's name," it means to establish or build a reputation for oneself. This can be achieved by engaging in actions or behaviors that reflect positively on one's character or abilities. The examples provided demonstrate different contexts in which this idiom can be used, including personal reputation in a community, professional reputation in a company, and reputation in a specific industry.

More "Ownership" idioms