What Does “Run after sth” Mean?
“Run after sth” means to chase or pursue something, often with effort or determination. It can be used literally or figuratively.
Introduction
The phrasal verb “run after sth” is commonly used in everyday English. It carries the idea of chasing or following something, whether physically or metaphorically. For example, you might run after a bus to catch it, or run after a dream by working hard. Understanding the run after sth meaning will help you use it confidently in various situations. This phrase is useful for expressing pursuit and effort in both casual and formal conversations.
Quick Info Box
- Phrasal verb: run after something
- Type: transitive
- Level: A2–B2
- Short meaning: to chase or try to catch something
Structure (Grammar Rules)
“Run after sth” is a separable phrasal verb. This means you can place the object (something) between the verb and the particle or after the entire phrase.
- run after + object (noun/pronoun)
- Example: She runs after the ball. / She runs the ball after.
However, using the object after the entire phrasal verb is less common and sounds informal.
How to Use Run after sth?
Use “run after sth” when talking about chasing or pursuing something physically or metaphorically. It can refer to catching a moving object, trying to achieve a goal, or seeking something with effort.
It’s often used in everyday conversations and writing to describe active pursuit.
Examples
Imagine a child chasing a puppy in the park. You could say, “The boy runs after the dog.” This is a simple, literal example.
- She runs after her dreams by studying every day.
- He ran after the bus but missed it.
- They are running after new business opportunities.
- Don’t just run after money; enjoy life too.
These run after sth in a sentence examples show how flexible this phrase is.
Common Mistakes
Many learners confuse word order or use the wrong preposition. Here are some examples:
- Incorrect: She runs after to the bus.
- Correct: She runs after the bus.
- Incorrect: He run after catching the ball.
- Correct: He runs after catching the ball.
Remember, “run after” is always followed directly by the object without extra prepositions.
Differences / Synonyms
“Run after sth” is similar to “chase” or “go after.” However, “run after” often implies physical movement or active pursuit, while “go after” can be more general.
- Chase: Focuses on quickly following something moving.
- Go after: Can mean to pursue goals or people.
- Run after: Usually physical chasing, but also used figuratively.
Common Collocations
You will often see “run after” used with these objects:
- Bus/train: Trying to catch public transport.
- Ball: In sports or play.
- Dreams/goals: Pursuing ambitions.
- Opportunities: Seeking chances for success.
- Children/pets: Literally chasing after them.
Related Phrasal Verbs
Here are related phrasal verbs of run after sth:
Real-life Dialogue
Here is a simple conversation using “run after sth”:
Anna: Did you see Tom running after the bus this morning?
Ben: Yes, he almost caught it but the doors closed just in time.
Anna: He really hates being late.
Practice
Complete the sentences with “run after” and the correct object:
- She _____ the _____ to catch it before it left.
- They are _____ their _____ by working hard every day.
- He often _____ his _____ when playing in the park.
Answers: runs after / bus, running after / dreams, runs after / dog
FAQ
- What does “run after sth” mean? It means to chase or pursue something physically or metaphorically.
- Is “run after sth” separable? Yes, the object can go between “run” and “after.”
- Can I use “run after” for goals? Yes, it is common to say “run after your dreams or goals.”
- Is “run after” the same as “chase”? They are similar, but “run after” often implies physical running.
- Can I say “run after to the bus”? No, the correct phrase is “run after the bus” without “to.”
