1 B2 idiomatic informal
To suddenly leave or abandon someone who was depending on you, especially in a selfish or cowardly way
"He ran out on his family when things got difficult, and nobody forgave him for it."
inseparable
run out on
B2 informal inseparable transitive
To suddenly abandon someone who is depending on you, especially in a cowardly or irresponsible way
In plain English
To leave someone who needs you, like running away when things get hard
What does "run out on" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Usage tip
Often used in emotional contexts: relationships, family, partnerships. Implies a betrayal of trust. More common in American English than British.
Words that pair with "run out on"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
family partner friends team responsibilities promises
How to conjugate "run out on"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
run out on
I/you/we/they
3rd person
runs out on
he/she/it
Past simple
ran out on
yesterday
Past participle
run out on
have + pp
-ing form
running out on
continuous
Hear "run out on" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "run out on" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
Jump to every phrasal verb built on the same verb, particle, or level.