Phrase guide

run to

verb · 3 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

verb

Meaning 1

To reach a particular maximum amount, size, value, etc.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: idiomatic

Examples

  • The official report runs to several thousand pages in 12 volumes.
  • The repairs ran to 1,200 euros.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

verb

Meaning 2

To be capable of reaching or achieving.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: idiomatic

Examples

  • My musical tastes don't run to Wagner, I'm afraid.
  • I think my carpentry should run to making a window.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

3

verb

Meaning 3

To go to a responsible person or authority figure for support; to require another to support oneself.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Examples

  • She's getting a little old to run to her mother every time she gets in a fight with her friends.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: turn to

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.