run out on

B2 informal inseparable transitive

In simple words

To leave someone who needs you, like running away when things get hard

Meanings

1 B2 idiomatic informal

common

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."

Grammar: inseparable

Usage notes

Often used in emotional contexts: relationships, family, partnerships. Implies a betrayal of trust. More common in American English than British.

family partner friends team responsibilities promises

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

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