What Does “Run down sth” Mean?
“Run down sth” is a phrasal verb that means to criticize something or to reduce something gradually until it stops working or loses power. It can also mean to physically hit something or someone by running into them.
Introduction
The phrasal verb “Run down sth” is common in English and has several meanings depending on the context. It can mean criticizing or speaking negatively about something, reducing power or energy, or even physically hitting something. Understanding the different uses of “Run down sth” meaning helps learners use it correctly in conversation and writing. This guide explains its meanings, grammar structure, examples, and common mistakes to avoid.
Quick Info Box
- Phrasal verb: Run down something
- Type: Transitive
- Level: B2
- Short meaning: To criticize, reduce power, or hit something
Structure (Grammar Rules)
“Run down sth” is a transitive phrasal verb, which means it requires an object.
Separable or inseparable? It is usually separable, so you can say:
- Run down the battery
- Run the battery down
Both forms are correct and commonly used.
How to Use Run down sth?
You can use “run down sth” when you want to describe:
- Criticizing or speaking negatively about something.
- Reducing energy, power, or resources gradually.
- Physically hitting or knocking something or someone down.
Choose the meaning based on the context to avoid confusion.
Examples
Here are natural sentences using “run down sth in a sentence”:
- She always runs down the new policies at work.
- The phone battery ran down after hours of use.
- The car ran down the cyclist in the busy street.
- Don’t run down your health by working too much.
- He ran the old computer down until it stopped working.
Common Mistakes
People sometimes confuse the meaning or structure of “run down sth”. Here are some examples:
- Incorrect: He ran down about the project.
Correct: He ran down the project. - Incorrect: The battery run down.
Correct: The battery ran down.
Remember to use the object directly after “run down” or separate it correctly.
Differences / Synonyms
“Run down sth” can be similar to other phrasal verbs but with subtle differences:
- Run through sth: To explain or rehearse quickly, not to criticize or reduce.
- Break down sth: To stop working or to analyze something in detail.
- Put down sth: To criticize but usually more gently or to write something down.
Use “run down” when you want to express strong criticism or gradual reduction.
Common Collocations
“Run down” is often used with specific objects. Here are common collocations:
- Run down battery: To use energy until it is gone.
- Run down reputation: To criticize someone’s character.
- Run down building: A neglected or damaged building.
- Run down health: To become weak or tired.
Related Phrasal Verbs
Here are related phrasal verbs of run down sth:
Real-life Dialogue
Here is a short conversation using “run down sth”:
Anna: I heard you ran down the new manager’s ideas in the meeting.
Ben: Yes, I think some of the proposals won’t work.
Anna: Just be careful not to run down the whole project.
Practice
Try filling in the blanks with “run down” in the correct form:
- The phone’s battery finally ______ after five hours.
- She tends to ______ her coworkers unfairly.
- Don’t ______ your health by skipping sleep.
- The car accidentally ______ the mailbox.
FAQ
- What does “run down sth” mean? It means to criticize, reduce power, or hit something.
- Is “run down sth” separable? Yes, the object can come before or after “run down”.
- Can “run down” be used without an object? Usually, it requires an object to complete the meaning.
- What is the difference between “run down” and “break down”? “Run down” often means criticize or reduce power, while “break down” means stop working or analyze.
- Can “run down” be used for people? Yes, it can mean criticizing someone or becoming weak or tired.
