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run off with

B2 informal inseparable transitive
In simple words

To secretly leave with someone you love (or shouldn't be with), or to steal something and run away

Literal meaning: To run away while taking something or someone — fairly transparent

Meanings

1 B2 idiomatic informal

To leave secretly with a romantic partner, especially one of whom others disapprove

"She shocked everyone when she ran off with her colleague and moved abroad."

Grammar: inseparable
2 B1 informal

To steal something and escape with it

"The thief ran off with her handbag before anyone could react."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

The romantic sense often implies disapproval from others. The theft sense is somewhat humorous when used about minor items (e.g., 'the dog ran off with my sandwich').

Commonly used with

lover secretary money jewels prize sandwich

Forms

Base
run off with
I/you/we/they
3rd person
runs off with
he/she/it
Past simple
ran off with
yesterday
Past participle
run off with
have + pp
-ing form
running off with
continuous

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