run the gauntlet

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "run the gauntlet" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to someone facing a difficult or multiple difficult tests or challenges. For example, "We had to run the gauntlet of exams to pass the course."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

The Guardian - Sport

The Guardian

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Even so, the coaches run the gauntlet of critics.

The New York Times - Sports

Why run the gauntlet of public, political and media opprobrium?

The Guardian

Trucks bringing in supplies have to run the gauntlet of Isis checkpoints and ambushes.

Independent

In those days, we didn't have security and we'd have to run the gauntlet.

The Guardian - Sport

Convoys that try to get out of here must run the gauntlet of taunting Christian mobs.

The Guardian

Money, tickets, passports and we were off to run the gauntlet of south London.

The Guardian - Sport

Also, women collaborators were forced to run the gauntlet and were really beaten".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The test comes up in September, so a new batch of applicants have just run the gauntlet.

Independent

I won't spoil the fun or run the gauntlet of our arbiters of good taste by providing a full transcript.

The New Yorker

Those secretaries will also have to run the gauntlet of Senate confirmation and oversight, unlike White House staff.

The Guardian

Imagine showing up to work just to run the gauntlet of hundreds of people telling you how worthless you are.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "run the gauntlet", ensure the context clearly establishes the series of challenges or criticisms being faced. This idiom is most effective when the difficulties are sequential or form a clear path that must be traversed.

Common error

Avoid using "run the gauntlet" for a single, isolated challenge. This idiom implies a series of difficulties or a sustained period of intense scrutiny, not just one obstacle.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "run the gauntlet" is as a verb phrase functioning as a predicate in a sentence. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is a correct and usable expression. This idiomatic expression vividly describes the action of facing a series of challenges or criticisms.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

The Guardian - Sport

6%

The Guardian

6%

Less common in

Wikipedia

2%

BBC

4%

Forbes

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "run the gauntlet" is an idiomatic expression used to describe facing a series of challenges, criticisms, or obstacles. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability, with frequent appearances in news and media contexts. It vividly portrays the experience of enduring multiple trials, often in quick succession. While alternatives like "endure a trial" or "undergo scrutiny" exist, they may not fully capture the sequential and often intense nature of the challenges implied by "run the gauntlet". It's important to use this idiom when the situation involves a clear progression of difficulties, rather than a single, isolated incident. Ludwig's examples highlight its use in describing everything from political scrutiny to literal physical dangers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

overcome obstacles

This alternative focuses on the successful act of surpassing impediments or difficulties.

survive the ordeal

This focuses on successfully coming through a painful or difficult experience.

weather the storm

Similar to "brave the storm", this implies surviving a difficult period.

endure a trial

This alternative focuses on the act of withstanding a difficult or challenging experience.

brave the storm

This suggests facing a turbulent or difficult situation with courage.

contend with adversity

This phrase highlights the act of struggling against unfavorable conditions or challenges.

face a barrage of criticism

This alternative emphasizes the aspect of being subjected to intense criticism or disapproval.

navigate a minefield

This alternative emphasizes the careful and cautious approach needed to avoid potential dangers or problems.

undergo scrutiny

This phrase highlights the experience of being closely examined or evaluated.

pass through a crucible

This metaphor suggests a transformative experience through intense pressure or hardship.

FAQs

How can I use "run the gauntlet" in a sentence?

You can use "run the gauntlet" to describe someone who is facing a series of challenges or criticisms. For example, "The politician had to "run the gauntlet" of media interviews after the scandal broke".

What does it mean to "run the gauntlet"?

To "run the gauntlet" means to go through a difficult or dangerous experience, often involving criticism, challenges, or obstacles. It originates from a military punishment where a person had to pass between two rows of people who would strike them.

What can I say instead of "run the gauntlet"?

Alternatives to "run the gauntlet" include "endure a trial", "undergo scrutiny", or "weather the storm", depending on the specific context you want to emphasize.

Is "walk the gauntlet" an acceptable alternative to "run the gauntlet"?

While "walk the gauntlet" is sometimes used, ""run the gauntlet"" is the more common and traditionally recognized idiom. "Walk the gauntlet" might suggest a slower or more deliberate approach to facing challenges, but is less idiomatic.