ran off

USAGE SUMMARY

"ran off" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
It is used to show that someone has left or departed suddenly or quickly. For example: "As soon as he heard the loud noise, he ran off in the opposite direction."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

The man ran off.

The New Yorker

Then they ran off.

The New York Times

Poe ran off.

The New Yorker

Officials ran off the field.

Independent

She ran off to look.

The New York Times

Then she ran off squatters.

The New York Times

She ran off.

The Guardian

He ran off.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Running off.

The New Yorker

Ma had run off.

The New Yorker

Don't run off!

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "ran off" to describe a quick or sudden departure, especially when someone is trying to avoid something or someone. For instance, "The suspect saw the police and ran off."

Common error

Avoid using "ran off" in formal or professional writing where a more sophisticated synonym like "departed abruptly" or "fled" would be more appropriate. Overusing informal language can detract from the writing's authority.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ran off" functions as a phrasal verb, indicating a quick or sudden departure. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and usable in written English. The examples show its use in describing someone leaving quickly, often to escape a situation or person.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "ran off" is a phrasal verb used to describe a quick or sudden departure, often implying an attempt to escape or avoid something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use. Predominantly found in news and media sources, it carries a neutral register suitable for various contexts. While synonyms like "fled" or "took off" may be more appropriate in formal settings, "ran off" remains a common and effective way to convey abrupt departures. Its frequent usage and clear meaning make it a valuable addition to one's vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

took off

A more casual implying a quick departure.

hurried off

Highlights the haste in leaving, often due to a deadline or appointment.

fled

A more formal and often implies escaping from danger or unpleasantness.

slipped away

Implies a discreet or unnoticed departure.

bolted

Indicates a sudden and forceful movement, often out of fear or panic.

darted away

Suggests a sudden and quick movement, often out of fear or surprise.

sprinted away

Emphasizes the speed of the departure.

scampered off

Implies a hurried and light-footed departure, often used for small animals or children.

escaped

Suggests leaving a confined or undesirable situation.

disappeared

Indicates a sudden and complete vanishing.

FAQs

How can I use "ran off" in a sentence?

"Ran off" is typically used to describe someone leaving quickly and suddenly. Example: "When the alarm sounded, everyone "ran off" in a panic."

What are some alternatives to "ran off"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "fled", "took off", or "darted away".

What's the difference between "ran off" and "wandered off"?

"Ran off" implies a sudden, hasty departure, often to escape something, while "wandered off" suggests a gradual, aimless departure, often due to distraction or curiosity.

Is "ran off" appropriate for formal writing?

While "ran off" is perfectly acceptable in informal contexts, it might be too casual for formal writing. Consider using more formal alternatives like "departed" or "withdrew" in such situations.