1 C1 idiomatic slang
(Slang) To deceive or trick someone, usually for personal gain
"Don't try to run one on me — I know exactly what you're doing."
separable
run one on
C1 slang separable transitive
(Slang) To trick or deceive someone; to pull a scam or con on someone
In plain English
To lie to or trick someone, usually to get something from them
What does "run one on" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Usage tip
Common in informal and slang registers, particularly in urban American speech. The 'one' refers to a trick or scam. Used in contexts of street talk or colloquial storytelling.
Words that pair with "run one on"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
trick scam con hustle fool deceive
How to conjugate "run one on"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
run one on
I/you/we/they
3rd person
runs one on
he/she/it
Past simple
ran one on
yesterday
Past participle
run one on
have + pp
-ing form
running one on
continuous
Hear "run one on" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "run one on" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
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