run amok

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "run amok" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to describe someone or a group of people who are out of control or behaving in an unrestrained, often violent manner. For example: "The mob ran amok, destroying property and injuring several people."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Is it consumerism run amok?

The New York Times

Is it speculation run amok?

The New York Times

Run wild, run amok".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

They run amok.

The Guardian - Opinion

Things run amok.

The New York Times - Books

Zombies run amok in New York City.

The New York Times

This is symbolism run amok.

The Washington Post

Was this football hooligans run amok?

The New Yorker

It's become a language run amok!

Princeton University

It's political correctness run amok".

The New York Times

"It is capitalism run amok".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "run amok", ensure the context clearly indicates a loss of control or violent, unrestrained behavior. This phrase is most effective when emphasizing chaos and a lack of order.

Common error

Avoid using "run amok" to describe minor instances of disarray. The phrase implies a significant loss of control, so reserve it for situations where the chaos is substantial.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "run amok" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe a subject that is behaving uncontrollably and often destructively. Ludwig AI confirms this is a valid and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Academia

13%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "run amok" is a widely used verb phrase that describes uncontrolled and often destructive behavior. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct and appropriate in various contexts. It is most frequently found in News & Media, suggesting its prevalence in describing real-world events that have spiraled out of control. While versatile, it's crucial to use it when emphasizing significant chaos and avoid applying it to minor instances of disarray. Consider alternatives like "go on a rampage" or "get out of hand" to suit the specific nuance you wish to convey. The examples provided by Ludwig highlight how "run amok" effectively communicates a sense of disorder and lack of restraint in various situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

go on a rampage

Focuses more on violent and destructive behavior.

behave erratically

Emphasizes unpredictable and inconsistent behavior.

get out of hand

Highlights a situation escalating beyond control.

become uncontrollable

Stresses the loss of ability to manage or restrain.

go wild

Suggests unrestrained and often joyful behavior, though it can also imply a lack of control.

fly off the handle

Implies a sudden outburst of anger or loss of temper.

lose all restraint

Highlights the abandonment of self-control and moderation.

behave lawlessly

Emphasizes a disregard for rules and regulations.

break loose

Implies escaping from confinement or control.

act irresponsibly

Focuses on the lack of responsible or thoughtful behavior.

FAQs

How can I use "run amok" in a sentence?

You can use "run amok" to describe situations where something or someone is behaving in an uncontrolled and often destructive manner. For instance, "The rumors ran amok, causing widespread panic".

What does "run amok" mean?

"Run amok" means to behave in a wild and uncontrolled manner, often destructively. It implies a loss of restraint and can be used to describe people, animals, or even abstract concepts.

Which is correct, "run amok" or "ran amok"?

Both "run amok" and "ran amok" are correct, depending on the tense you need. "Run amok" is the base form, while "ran amok" is the past tense. For example: "The children run amok when left unsupervised" versus "The children ran amok while their parents were away".

What can I say instead of "run amok"?

You can use alternatives like "go on a rampage", "behave erratically", or "get out of hand" depending on the context.