What are the definitions of “run out on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1To abandon or leave someone, especially without warning or explanation.
He had tried to argue with her and had said, `You can't run out on my wife and me like that!
- 2To abandon or leave someone or something suddenly and without warning.
I had never once expected to be run out on a rail by a supposed superior who was less of a police officer than I was in every way.
- 3To abandon or leave someone, especially in a difficult or challenging situation.
Jane’s husband ran out on her when their children were still young.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “run out on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb run out on is to abandon or leave someone, especially without warning or explanation. It often implies leaving someone in a difficult or challenging situation.
What are the different verb forms of “run out on”?
| Root Verb | run out on |
| Third Person Singular Present | runs out on |
| Present Participle | running out on |
| Simple Past | ran out on |
| Past Participle | run out on |
Example
She threatened to run out on him if he didn't change his ways.
Example
He runs out on his responsibilities whenever things get tough.
Example
She is running out on her family to start a new life.
Example
He ran out on his wife and children without any explanation.
Example
She felt betrayed when her best friend run out on her during the difficult times.
What kind of phrasal verb is “run out on”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“run out on” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
He ran out on his family.
Example
She ran out on her responsibilities.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“run out on” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
He ran out on his family.
Example
She ran out on her responsibilities.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “run out on”?
Run out on a bill
To leave a restaurant or other establishment without paying the bill.
Example
The couple ran out on the bill after their meal, leaving the waiter to cover the cost.
Run out on a commitment
To abandon a promise or obligation.
Example
He ran out on his commitment to the team, leaving them without a coach.
Run out on a relationship
To suddenly end a romantic relationship without explanation.
Example
She ran out on her long-term relationship, leaving her partner heartbroken.
Good things to know
Does “run out on” have an informal or formal tone?
Run out on is generally considered informal and is more commonly used in everyday conversations. In more formal settings, alternative phrases such as 'abandon' or 'leave' may be more appropriate.
