run over: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘run over’ mean?
The idiom "run over" means to hit or knock down someone or something with a vehicle. It can also refer to reviewing or reiterating something quickly, and it is often used to describe time that exceeds the original plan.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "run through" means to quickly review or discuss something, often in a casual or brief manner. It can also refer to the act of rehearsing or practicing something, such as a performance or a speech.
The idiom "run the rule over" means to examine or evaluate something or someone in a thorough and critical manner.
The idiom "run someone off their feet" means to keep someone extremely busy or overwhelmed with work or tasks.
The idiom "run rings around" means to easily outperform or outdo someone in a given activity or task. It implies being much more skilled or efficient than the person or group being compared to. The phrase originates from the idea of running in circles around someone or something, suggesting a clear superiority.
The idiom "run past" means to quickly mention or discuss something without going into detail or providing much information.
The idiom "run out the clock" means to intentionally waste time or delay the completion of a task or event, often to secure a favorable outcome or simply to avoid unwanted consequences.
The idiom "run out" means to exhaust the supply of something or to reach the end of a limited resource. It implies that there is no more of that specific thing available.
The idiom "run on" means to continue speaking without pausing or to continue happening without stopping. It can also refer to a sentence that is too long and lacks proper punctuation.
The idiom "run off with" means to leave quickly and unexpectedly with someone or something, often in a secretive or unauthorized manner. It implies a sense of impulsiveness and abandonment, suggesting a departure without prior notice or agreement.
The idiom "run off" means to leave quickly or flee.
Road accidents.
The idiom "run the rule over" is a variation of the phrase "run over" and is often used in a figurative sense. It means to carefully consider, examine, or assess something or someone. This idiom is commonly used when evaluating or scrutinizing a particular situation or individual.
In the business world, for instance, a manager might "run the rule over" a potential investment opportunity to determine whether it is worth pursuing. This involves conducting a thorough analysis of the financials, market conditions, and potential risks and rewards.
Similarly, in the context of hiring new employees, a recruiter might "run the rule over" job applicants to assess their qualifications, skills, and suitability for a position. This could involve reviewing resumes, conducting interviews, and checking references.
The idiom "go over" is another related phrase that is often used interchangeably with "run over." It has a similar meaning, referring to the act of examining or reviewing something in detail.
For example, a student might "go over" their notes before a big test in order to refresh their memory and ensure they are well-prepared. A project manager might "go over" the details of a project plan to identify any potential issues or problems that need to be addressed.
The idiom "run the rule over" and its related phrase "go over" are both commonly used to describe the act of carefully examining or assessing something or someone. Whether it's evaluating investment opportunities or reviewing job applicants, these idioms convey the idea of taking a close look and making informed decisions.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom *run over* can be used in a sentence:
- I need to *run over* to the grocery store before it closes.
- Be careful not to *run over* the instructions when you're assembling the furniture.
- We're going to *run over* the details of the project in our next meeting.
More "Transportation" idioms
