run a red light: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘run a red light’ mean?
"Run a red light" is an idiom that means to drive through an intersection while the traffic light is showing red, violating traffic rules and potentially causing an accident.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "yellow light" refers to a cautionary signal in traffic, signaling drivers to slow down or prepare to stop. In a metaphorical sense, it represents a warning or a sign of caution in various situations, advising individuals to proceed with care or be aware of potential risks.
The idiom "see red" is often used to describe a strong emotional reaction, particularly anger or rage. When someone "sees red," it means that they become so angry that their vision figuratively turns red, suggesting an intense and uncontrollable anger that may blur rational judgment.
The idiom "run late" means to be behind schedule or to not arrive or finish something on time.
The idiom "run into the ground" means to exhaust or use up completely, often through overuse or mismanagement.
The idiom "run high" refers to when emotions or tensions are intense or reaching a peak level. It describes a situation where feelings, such as anger, excitement, or anxiety, are strong and powerful.
The idiom "run for the hills" means to quickly escape or flee from a dangerous or threatening situation.
The meaning of the idiom *run for one's life* is to flee or escape from a dangerous or life-threatening situation as quickly as possible.
The idiom "run down the clock" refers to a situation where a person intentionally takes actions to use up time, usually in order to avoid or delay a specific event or outcome.
The idiom *run around like a chicken with its head cut off* means to act in a frantic, disorganized manner, typically due to panic or confusion.
Decoding Traffic Transgressions
In the idiom "run a red light," the verb "run" is used metaphorically to mean disobey or disregard. The phrase "a red light" refers to a traffic signal that is red, indicating that drivers should stop. When put together, the idiom "run a red light" signifies the act of driving through a traffic intersection when the traffic signal is red, without stopping. This idiom is commonly used in American English, and its meaning is widely understood by the US audience.
The origin of this idiom can be traced back to the introduction of traffic signals, specifically red lights, in the late 19th century. The first electric traffic signal was installed in Cleveland, Ohio in 1914, and it used red, green, and yellow lights. It quickly became common practice for drivers to stop at a red light, as it signaled the need to yield to oncoming traffic. Over time, the phrase "run a red light" emerged colloquially to describe the act of disregarding this traffic signal and continuing through the intersection.
The idiom "run a red light" is often associated with negative consequences, as it is an illegal and dangerous action. When a driver runs a red light, they risk causing an accident, endangering their own life and the lives of others. This idiom is frequently used in discussions about traffic safety and the importance of obeying traffic laws.
Additionally, "run a red light" can be applied figuratively to describe disregarding rules or norms in other contexts beyond driving. It can be used to convey the idea of not adhering to regulations, ignoring warnings, or acting recklessly. In these cases, the idiom carries the same negative connotations and potential negative consequences as its literal interpretation in traffic-related situations.
It is worth noting that the idiom "run a red light" retains its literal meaning even in situations where the specific traffic signal is not red. The phrase has become a fixed expression, and its significance is tied to the idea of disregarding any form of signal or warning that requires a stop or compliance.
The idiom "run a red light" originates from the practice of disregarding a red traffic signal while driving. It is a metaphorical expression that signifies disregarding rules, warnings, or norms in various contexts. This idiom is widely understood by the US audience and carries negative connotations due to its association with illegal and dangerous behavior.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom *run a red light* can be used in a sentence:
- He got a ticket for running a red light.
- She narrowly avoided an accident by running a red light.
- The driver was arrested for running a red light and causing a collision.
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