hit and run

USAGE SUMMARY

"hit and run" can be used in written English.
It is usually used in the context of a car accident in which a driver has collided with another vehicle and immediately drove away without stopping or providing assistance to the other party. For example: "I couldn't believe that the other driver had committed a hit and run and left me stranded at the side of the road."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

They hit and run.

The Guardian

I cannot hit and run.

The Guardian

If we wanted to hit and run, then hit and run".

The New York Times

"Hit and run, please advise, hit and run," the dispatcher relayed.

The New York Times

We don't just hit and run.

The Guardian

Kim reminds him: "Hit and run.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

bruisers, so they never learned to hit-and-run".

The New York Times - Sports

I've got to focus on pitching, hitting and running.

The New York Times

Knoblauch is just playing and hitting and running.

The New York Times - Sports

We were hitting and running, and running and hitting.

Los Angeles Times

ERA (4.07), batting average (.257), hits and runs scored?

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In baseball context, "hit and run" refers to a strategic play. Be precise about the context you are using the phrase in to avoid confusion.

Common error

Don't assume "hit and run" always refers to a car accident. It's a common baseball term, so clarify the context to avoid confusion. For instance, instead of simply saying "They called a hit and run", specify "The coach called a "hit and run" play".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hit and run" functions as a compound noun or verb phrase, depending on the context. As a noun, it describes the incident itself. As a verb, it describes the action of hitting something and fleeing. The phrase meaning is often clear from context as Ludwig AI also confirms.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "hit and run" is a commonly used term with distinct meanings depending on the context. It most often refers to a car accident where the driver leaves the scene, but it also has a specific meaning in baseball. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct and acceptable in written English. While its usage is widespread across news, academia, and general conversation, clarity is key to avoid ambiguity. When writing, ensure the context is clear to prevent misinterpretations, particularly between its legal/accidental meaning and its baseball-related meaning. Remember to use synonyms like "leaving the scene of an accident" or "fleeting attack" when appropriate to provide greater precision. In legal contexts, always rely on accurate and verified information.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

leave the scene of an accident

Focuses specifically on the act of leaving after an accident, omitting the initial impact.

quick getaway

Focuses on the rapid departure from a scene, often implying an attempt to escape consequences.

evasive action

Highlights the act of avoiding consequences or responsibility, applicable in various contexts beyond vehicular incidents.

irresponsible departure

Emphasizes the lack of responsibility in leaving a situation or scene.

fleeting attack

Emphasizes the brief and rapid nature of an assault or offensive maneuver.

runaway incident

Highlights the uncontrolled or escalating nature of an event or situation.

sudden raid

Conveys the idea of a quick and unexpected attack or intrusion.

dash and disappear

Captures the quick movement followed by an abrupt vanishing, applicable in contexts beyond accidents.

smash and grab

Refers to a type of burglary where a storefront window is smashed to steal merchandise.

attack and retreat

Describes a military or strategic maneuver involving a quick strike followed by a withdrawal.

FAQs

What does "hit and run" mean?

The phrase "hit and run" typically refers to a car accident where the driver leaves the scene without providing information or assistance. It can also refer to a baseball play, where a runner advances as the batter attempts to hit the ball.

Is "hit and run" a crime?

Yes, in most jurisdictions, leaving the scene of an accident without providing information or assistance is a criminal offense. Penalties can vary depending on the severity of the incident.

What are some synonyms for "hit and run" in the context of a car accident?

In the context of a car accident, you can use phrases like "leaving the scene of an accident", "fleeing the scene", or describing it as an "evasive action".

How is a "hit and run" play executed in baseball?

In baseball, a "hit and run" is a play where the runner on first base takes off running when the pitcher releases the ball, and the batter attempts to hit the ball, ideally putting it in play to allow the runner to advance.