run up on
C1 slang inseparable transitive
In simple words
To quickly go up to someone in an aggressive or threatening way
Literal meaning: To run up to someone — the physical action is transparent but the aggressive connotation is idiomatic
Meanings
1 C1
idiomatic
slang
(AAVE slang) To approach someone suddenly, often with aggressive or threatening intent
"Don't run up on me like that — you nearly gave me a heart attack."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
AAVE slang, common in urban settings and rap/hip-hop culture. Implies a sudden, often threatening approach. Can also be used more casually to mean simply approaching someone quickly. Context determines the level of threat.
Commonly used with
someone enemy stranger crew opponent
Forms
Base
run up on
I/you/we/they
3rd person
runs up on
he/she/it
Past simple
ran up on
yesterday
Past participle
run up on
have + pp
-ing form
running up on
continuous
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