run at

Definition
  1. Verb (Phrasal Verb):
    • To attack or charge toward someone or something: "run at" means to move quickly and aggressively in the direction of a person, animal, or object, often with the intent to harm, confront, or capture.
    • To approach or advance rapidly toward: In a broader sense, it can mean to move swiftly toward a target or goal without necessarily implying aggression.
Usage Examples
  • (The bull charged aggressively toward the matador.)
  • (The children approached the truck quickly and eagerly.)
  • (He moved rapidly toward the door with urgency.)
Advanced Usage

  • "to run at the mouth": (Informal) to talk excessively or boastfully.

    • She's always running at the mouth about her achievements. (She talks too much and often exaggerates.)

  • "to run at full speed": to move as fast as possible toward something.

    • The athlete ran at full speed toward the finish line. (He sprinted without slowing down.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Run (v): the base verb meaning to move quickly using one's legs.

    • I need to run to catch the bus. (To move swiftly.)

  • Runner (n): a person who runs, especially in a race.

    • She is a long-distance runner. (She competes in running events.)

  • Runaway (adj/n): something or someone that has escaped or is out of control.

    • The runaway horse ran at the fence. (The horse charged toward the fence uncontrollably.)
Synonyms
  • Charge at: to rush forward aggressively toward someone or something.
  • Dash at: to move quickly and directly toward a target.
  • Lunge at: to make a sudden forward movement toward someone, often with intent to attack.
Phrasal Verbs (Related)

  • Run after: to pursue or chase someone or something.

    • The dog ran after the ball. (The dog chased the ball.)

  • Run into: to meet unexpectedly or to collide with.

    • I ran into an old friend at the store. (I met them by chance.)
Related Idioms
  • Run at the mouth: (See Advanced Usage) to talk too much.
  • Run at the bit: (Horse racing) to be eager or impatient to start moving.
    • The horse was running at the bit, ready to race. (The horse was eager to begin.)