on the run
1
moving from one place to another in an attempt to not get caught or arrested
The idiom "on the run" originated in the late 19th century and originally referred to a criminal or fugitive who was fleeing from the authorities. The phrase has since been used more broadly to describe anyone who is trying to avoid being caught or detected, whether or not they are actually breaking the law. It is typically used to describe a situation where someone is moving quickly and trying to avoid detection or capture. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
- The fugitive has been on the run for weeks, constantly changing locations to evade capture.
- After the daring prison escape, the convict has been on the run, eluding authorities at every turn.
- The spy went on the run after being discovered, employing various disguises and aliases to stay hidden.
- The notorious jewel thief went on the run after the heist, leaving the authorities scrambling to apprehend them.
- The suspect in the high-profile case went on the run, leaving detectives in a race against time to track them down.
2
in a state of disadvantage, difficulty, or vulnerability
The origin of this meaning of "on the run" is unclear. It may have developed as an extension of the original meaning of the phrase, which referred to a criminal or fugitive who was fleeing from the authorities. Alternatively, it may have developed independently as a metaphorical expression. It is used to describe a situation where someone is in a state of disadvantage, difficulty, or vulnerability, the phrase suggests that the person is struggling to keep up with the demands of the situation and is at risk of being overwhelmed.
- His opponents believe he is definitely on the run.
- The team was on the run from a strong opponent, struggling to keep up with the pace and intensity of the game.
- You've got 'em on the run now, boys!Go out there and finish it!