1 B2 idiomatic informal
To take an idea, plan, or opportunity and develop or pursue it enthusiastically
"The editor loved the pitch and told the journalist to run with it."
inseparable
run with
B2 informal inseparable transitive
To take an idea, plan, or opportunity and develop it enthusiastically and independently
In plain English
To take an idea and go with it fully, making it your own and developing it
What does "run with" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 C1 idiomatic informal
To associate with a particular group of people
"In his youth he ran with a crowd that was always getting into trouble."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To run alongside someone or something — the figurative sense extends this to carrying an idea forward
Actually means
To take an idea and go with it fully, making it your own and developing it
Usage tip
Very common in business and creative contexts. Implies initiative and enthusiasm. Often used by managers giving team members autonomy: 'I'll let you run with this project.'
Words that pair with "run with"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
idea concept project story plan suggestion
How to conjugate "run with"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
run with
I/you/we/they
3rd person
runs with
he/she/it
Past simple
ran with
yesterday
Past participle
run with
have + pp
-ing form
running with
continuous
Hear "run with" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "run with" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
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