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Run Down for Dummies

verb

pronunciation: rən_daʊn

What does Run Down really mean?

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Hey there!

So, you want to know what "run down" means? No problem, I'm here to help! "Run down" is actually a phrase that can have a few different meanings. Let's break them down one by one, so we can make sure you understand it completely!

First off, when we say something or someone is "run down," we usually mean that they are in poor or bad condition. Imagine a house that hasn't been taken care of for a long time. The paint is peeling, the roof is leaking, and everything just looks tired and worn out. That house is "run down." Now, think about a person who hasn't been taking care of themselves. Maybe they're feeling tired, sick, or just not feeling their best. You could say that person is "run down" too.

For example: "My car is so old and run down, it keeps breaking down on me."

Another way we use "run down" is to describe something that is explained or listed in great detail. When we give a lot of information about a topic or list all the important points, we "run down" that topic. It's like a marathon of information! Just like how a teacher might run down a list of important historical events, or a coach might run down a list of rules before a game.

For example: "Let me run down all the things you need to know about this project."

Lastly, and this might surprise you, "run down" can also mean to physically chase or pursue someone or something. Imagine a little kid playing tag, running around trying to catch their friends. They are "running down" their friends. It's like they're on a mission! Of course, in a more serious context, the police might run down a criminal or a journalist might run down a lead to get all the facts.

For example: "The detective spent weeks trying to run down the suspect."

So there you have it! "Run down" can mean something is in poor condition, it can also mean explaining or listing things in detail, and it can even mean chasing or pursuing someone or something. I hope that breaks it down for you in a way that makes sense!

If you have any more questions or need further explanation, feel free to ask. I'm here to help you learn!


Revised and Fact checked by Robert Jones on 2023-10-29 18:19:13

Run Down In a sentece

Learn how to use Run Down inside a sentece

  • When your car has been running for a very long time without stopping, the energy in the battery can get run down.
  • If you play too much without taking a break, your body can get run down and you might get sick.
  • If you leave the water tap running all day, eventually the water in the tank will run down and you won't have any more left.
  • When you use your phone or tablet a lot, the battery can run down and you will need to charge it again.
  • If you keep running and playing around without resting, your energy levels can run down and you will feel tired.