1 B2 neutral
To reach or total a particular amount, number, or size
"His final report ran to nearly two hundred pages."
inseparable
run to
B2 neutral inseparable transitive
To reach a particular amount or size, to go to someone for help or comfort, or to be able to afford something
In plain English
When something adds up to a total, or when you go to someone because you need help or comfort
What does "run to" mean?
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B1 informal
To go to someone for help, support, or comfort, often out of habit
"Every time he had a problem, he ran to his older sister for advice."
inseparable
3 C1 idiomatic informal
(British English) To be able to afford something
"I'd love a new laptop, but I can't really run to it this month."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To run toward someone or a place — the 'seek help' sense is an extension of this
Actually means
When something adds up to a total, or when you go to someone because you need help or comfort
Usage tip
The 'total' sense ('runs to several pages') is common in written and formal language. 'Run to someone' for comfort can sound slightly negative, suggesting over-dependence. British English uses it to mean 'afford': 'I can't run to that.'
Words that pair with "run to"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
pages thousands millions help mother afford
How to conjugate "run to"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
run to
I/you/we/they
3rd person
runs to
he/she/it
Past simple
ran to
yesterday
Past participle
run to
have + pp
-ing form
running to
continuous
Hear "run to" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "run to" 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.