What does "run at" mean (sense 1)?

to run quickly toward someone or something, especially in an aggressive way Example: "The dog suddenly ran at the postman, barking loudly."

run at

B2 neutral inseparable transitive

to move quickly toward someone or something, often to attack

In plain English

to run straight toward someone, sometimes to hurt them

One main meaning — here's how to use it.

1 B2 neutral

common

to run quickly toward someone or something, especially in an aggressive way

"The dog suddenly ran at the postman, barking loudly."

inseparable

Usage tip

Often used with animals, angry people, or sports play. Usually suggests threat or impact.

Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.

someone defender enemy dog crowd player

The five tense forms you'll use most often.

Base

run at

I/you/we/they

3rd person

runs at

he/she/it

Past simple

ran at

yesterday

Past participle

run at

have + pp

-ing form

running at

continuous

Listen to native speakers using "run at" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.

Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.

attack charge at dash toward go for rush at

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