good run: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘good run’ mean?

The idiom "good run" means a period of success or achievement in a particular activity or endeavor.

Idiom Explorer

Unraveling Successes and Fortuitous Mishaps

In the realm of idioms, the phrase "good run" holds a unique place. Derived from the sports domain, this idiom has a rich history intertwined with the achievements and endurance associated with running.

The phrase "good run" is used to denote a period of success, productivity, or favorable outcomes. It implies a continuous succession of positive events or experiences. The origins of this idiomatic expression can be traced back to the world of sports where one's performance during a specific time frame is often characterized as a "run."

While its sporting roots are evident, the idiom "good run" has become a versatile metaphor used across various contexts. In business, individuals might use it to refer to a profitable streak or a series of prosperous ventures. Similarly, in creative pursuits, the idiom could describe a period of inspired work or artistic breakthroughs.

It is worth noting that the meaning and interpretations of the idiom "good run" can vary based on an individual's perspective or the specific context in which it is used. For some, a good run may signify the culmination of years of hard work finally paying off, while for others, it may encapsulate the exciting and unpredictable nature of a temporary winning streak.

I had a lucky streak and won the run.

Within the realm of idioms, the phrase "good run" embodies the universal desire for success and prosperity. Its inherent simplicity and versatility have allowed it to become a popular and frequently used expression in everyday discourse. The phrase's resonance with individuals across cultures and professions highlights its ability to capture the essence of achievement and endurance.

Through its association with the sport of running and its established metaphorical representations, the idiom "good run" has become a linguistic tool capable of conveying a range of emotions and experiences. While it commonly denotes a period of success or favorable outcomes, the idiom's fluidity allows for subjective interpretations, leaving room for personal narratives and storytelling. Thus, the true power of the phrase lies not only in its objective meaning but also in the individual stories it can evoke.

The idiom "good job" is a commonly related phrase that shares a similar sentiment with the phrase "good run." Both idioms express satisfaction and accomplishment. While "good run" specifically refers to a positive sequence of events over a period of time, "good job" is more focused on recognizing a job well done in a particular task or endeavor.

Another related idiom is "so far so good," which signifies that things have been progressing well up to a certain point. This idiom can be used to describe a positive streak in a specific situation or endeavor. It suggests that the current progress has been satisfactory, but there is still more to come.

The idiom "go far" is another phrase related to the concept of a "good run." It implies that someone has the potential to achieve great success and make significant progress in their pursuits. "Go far" encapsulates the idea of pushing oneself beyond limitations and reaching new heights of accomplishment.

The idiom "good run" holds a significant place in language and communication. Derived from the world of sports, this phrase has expanded to encompass various contexts, representing periods of success and achievement. The versatility of the idiom allows for subjective interpretations, making it a powerful linguistic tool. Related idioms like "good job," "so far so good," and "go far" further emphasize the sentiments of satisfaction, progress, and potential that the phrase "good run" embodies.

Example usage

Examples:

1. After years of trying, she finally had a good run and won the marathon.

2. The company had a good run of successful product launches, but now they're facing some challenges.

3. The soccer team had a good run in the tournament, reaching the semi-finals before being eliminated.

The idiom "good run" can be used to describe a period of success or achievement in various contexts. In the first example, it refers to someone's accomplishment of winning a marathon after a long period of effort. The second example illustrates the use of "good run" to describe a successful streak of product launches by a company. Finally, the third example shows how the idiom can be used to describe a successful performance by a sports team in a tournament. In all cases, "good run" highlights a period of positive outcomes or progress.

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