in the running: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘in the running’ mean?
The idiom "in the running" means to be a competitor or have a chance of winning in a particular competition or pursuit.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "keep up" means to maintain the same level or pace, or to continue at a sufficient rate. It can refer to staying informed or being able to match or compete with others.
The idiom "in the swim" means to be actively involved or participating in something, typically referring to being part of the current trends, events, or activities. It suggests being well-informed and connected to what is happening around you.
The idiom "in the money" means to be in a financially successful or prosperous situation.
The idiom "in the making" means that something is currently being developed or created, and has the potential to become significant or influential in the future.
The idiom "in the lead" means to be in a leading or winning position, often in a competition or race.
The idiom "in the game" means actively participating or being involved in a particular activity or situation.
The idiom "in the game" has a clear and straightforward meaning. It indicates that someone is actively involved or participating in a particular situation or activity. It implies being fully committed and ready to contribute.
The idiom "in the fast lane" means to be living or working at a fast pace, often associated with a busy or exciting lifestyle full of activity and success.
In the fast lane is an idiomatic phrase that originates from the world of driving. Its meaning has been extended to describe the pace and intensity of life or specific activities. The idiom suggests a sense of speed, urgency, and high activity.
The idiom "in the business of" means actively engaged or involved in a particular activity or profession.
The idiom "in the business of" means to be actively engaged or involved in a particular field or occupation. It originated in the 18th century and has since become a common way to express someone's professional involvement or specialization.
The idiom "in fighting trim" means to be in good physical condition or ready to engage in a fight or competition.
Decoding rankings
In the running is an idiom commonly used in American English. The phrase conveys the idea of being considered as a serious contender or participant in a competition or achieving a particular goal. It is often used in various contexts such as politics, sports, job applications, and other competitive situations.
The origins of the idiom are believed to have derived from the world of horse racing. In horse races, the horses that have a chance of winning are said to be "in the running" for the top position. This expression has been adopted and extended to other areas of competition and life in general.
The idiom is often used figuratively and does not necessarily refer to an actual race or physical activity. It can be used in a wide range of situations where there is a competitive element involved.
For instance, in politics, a candidate who is "in the running" is seen as a serious contender for a particular office or position. They are considered to be in the lead and have a good chance of winning. Similarly, in sports, a team or player that is "in the running" is seen as having a good run and a good chance of winning a championship or achieving success. In job applications, someone who is "in the running" is being seriously considered for a position. They are seen as a front runner and have a high chance of being selected.
The meaning of "in the running" can vary depending on the context in which it is used. In some cases, it may simply mean that someone or something has a chance of winning or being successful. In other cases, it may imply a higher level of competitiveness or being one of the top contenders. The idiom suggests that the person or thing being referred to is actively participating and has a legitimate chance of achieving the desired outcome.
Overall, the idiom "in the running" is a versatile expression that is commonly used in American English. It conveys the idea of being a serious contender or participant in a competition or goal. Although its precise origins are unclear, it is believed to have originated from the world of horse racing. The idiom is used in a variety of contexts to describe someone or something that has a chance of winning or succeeding in a competitive situation. Its usage is widespread and familiar to many English speakers, making it a useful expression to convey the concept of active participation and competitiveness. While the idiom has a clear and specific meaning, its usage can vary depending on the context, allowing for a range of interpretations and applications.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "in the running" can be used in a sentence:
- She has been training hard and is now in the running to win the marathon.
- After the first round of interviews, five candidates are still in the running for the job.
- The team played exceptionally well and is now in the running for a spot in the finals.
More "Sports" idioms
