running target: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘running target’ mean?
The idiom "running target" refers to a situation where someone or something is constantly changing or moving, making it difficult to reach or achieve. It often implies a challenging and dynamic situation that requires continuous effort and adaptation.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "tough going" means that a situation or task is difficult or challenging. It implies that progress or success is not easily achieved and requires a lot of effort and perseverance.
The idiom "run late" means to be behind schedule or to not arrive or finish something on time.
The idiom "run hot and cold" means to constantly change one's opinion or attitude towards something, often alternating between enthusiasm and indifference.
The idiom "run high" refers to when emotions or tensions are intense or reaching a peak level. It describes a situation where feelings, such as anger, excitement, or anxiety, are strong and powerful.
The idiom *run around like a chicken with its head cut off* means to act in a frantic, disorganized manner, typically due to panic or confusion.
The idiom "run around after" means to constantly be busy or occupied attending to someone or something. It suggests a sense of being constantly on the move or dealing with various tasks and responsibilities.
The idiom "run a risk" means to take a chance or engage in an activity that could have negative consequences or uncertain outcomes.
The idiom "run and gun" refers to a fast-paced, aggressive and spontaneous approach to a situation or task, often without careful planning or consideration of the consequences.
The idiom "run about" means to move or travel quickly and randomly in different directions.
The idiom "rough trot" refers to a difficult or challenging period of time or situation. It conveys the idea of facing hardships or experiencing a series of problems.
Deciphering the Pursued
A factually accurate representation of the idiom running target in the context of American English is as follows:
The idiom running target is a metaphorical expression used to describe something or someone that is constantly changing or difficult to predict. The term running target originates from the world of archery, where a target moving at a fast pace presents a greater challenge for an archer to hit with precision. In this figurative sense, the idiom is often used to describe a situation or a person that is constantly shifting or evading capture, making it difficult to pin down or anticipate.
Within the English language, the idiomatic expression running target serves as a vivid and concise way to convey the concept of a constantly changing or elusive entity. It is primarily used in informal conversations and written texts, such as articles, to emphasize the dynamic nature of a particular situation or individual. The idiom holds a nuanced meaning, encompassing ideas of unpredictability, dynamism, and quickness.
The concept of running target is related to the idiomatic expression "on the run". When someone is "on the run", they are evading capture or avoiding being caught. This idiom is often employed to describe fugitives, criminals, or individuals who are trying to escape from the authorities. However, it can also be used more broadly to describe someone who is constantly moving or changing locations to avoid being found or held accountable.
In addition to "on the run", running target is also connected to the idiom "in the running". When someone or something is "in the running", they are considered to be a contender or a potential candidate for a particular position, award, or opportunity. It implies that they have a chance of being selected or chosen among a group of competitors. The idiom suggests a sense of dynamism and competitiveness, as individuals or entities strive to stand out and be recognized.
*Running target* is frequently employed in various contexts, such as business, politics, and sports, to describe scenarios where the situation is in a continual state of flux or where it is challenging to anticipate or keep up with developments. For example, in the business world, the idiom might be used to describe a rapidly evolving market or a competitor that frequently changes tactics. In politics, *running target* can portray a candidate whose stance on certain issues is constantly adjusting or a political climate that is difficult to navigate due to its ever-changing nature. Similarly, in sports, the idiom might be used to depict a skilled athlete who is particularly difficult to anticipate or defend against due to their agility and adaptability.
The idiom running target exemplifies the richness and versatility of the English language, providing a succinct and powerful way to convey the notion of constant change or unpredictability. The metaphorical origins of the expression draw from the world of archery, where hitting a moving target requires exceptional skill and focus. Through its usage, the idiom captures the essence of fleeting opportunities, evasive situations, and the challenges posed by a rapidly transforming world.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "running target" can be used in a sentence:
- 1. She always struggles to hit a running target, but she's improving her aim.
- 2. The company tried to keep up with the market's changing demands, but felt like they were chasing a running target.
- 3. The journalist had a difficult time gathering accurate information about the politician's plans because they were constantly shifting, making it feel like a running target.
More "Metaphorical" idioms
