run off

USAGE SUMMARY

"run off" is a valid phrase in written English, and it can be used in a variety of contexts.
For example, you could say "The thunderstorm caused several of our sheep to run off".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

Don't run off!

The New Yorker

Ma had run off.

The New Yorker

The children run off.

The New Yorker

Run off from agricultural developments.

The Guardian

He made him run off.

The New Yorker

I would run off.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

If not, there is a run-off.

The New Yorker

So a run-off election is likely.

The Economist

They seal the topsoil and generate surface run-off.

CATENA

and predict run-off along with soil erosion behavior.

Transportation Geotechnics

Vegetative barriers impeded run-off and controlled soil loss.

Field Crops Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "run off" to mean 'depart quickly', consider the context. Use stronger verbs like 'flee' or 'escape' if the situation involves danger or urgency.

Common error

Avoid using "run off" in formal writing when describing a formal departure or resignation. Opt for more professional terms such as "resign", "depart", or "step down" for a more appropriate tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "run off" primarily functions as a verb expressing movement or operation. Ludwig AI's examples show it denoting quick departure, as in "The children run off", or the functioning of a device, like "This radio runs off batteries."

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

28%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "run off" is a versatile phrasal verb with several meanings, including departing quickly, operating by a power source, or producing copies. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and common usage, particularly in news and media. While generally acceptable, it's essential to consider the context and choose more formal alternatives in professional or academic writing. Understanding its various nuances and appropriate usage scenarios ensures clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

flee

Emphasizes escaping from danger or a difficult situation.

escape

Highlights the act of getting free from confinement or control.

abscond

Implies a secretive and hurried departure, often with something illicit.

bolt

Suggests a sudden and rapid movement, like a startled animal.

take flight

Adds a dramatic or literary tone to the act of running away.

make a getaway

Focuses on the successful evasion after committing a crime or wrongdoing.

clear out

Indicates a quick departure, often to avoid trouble.

scamper away

Suggests a light and hurried movement, often used for small creatures.

operate on

Replaces the meaning related to energy source dependency, focusing on functionality.

be powered by

Specifically refers to being fueled or driven by a particular energy source.

FAQs

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

You can use "run off" in sentences like: "The children "ran off" to play in the park", or "The rainwater "runs off" the roof and into the garden".

What does "run off" mean when referring to a device?

When referring to a device, "run off" means to operate using a specific power source. For example, "This generator "runs off diesel"".

What can I say instead of "run off" when someone leaves quickly?

You can use alternatives like "flee", "escape", or "abscond" depending on the context and the reason for leaving quickly.

Is it correct to say someone "ran off with" something?

Yes, it's correct. "Ran off with" implies that someone has left quickly, taking something (often something that doesn't belong to them). For example: "He "ran off with the money"".