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Definitions

run for it

VERB
fly
Synonyms
STRONGEST
break disappear run take off withdraw
STRONG
abscond avoid bolt clear decamp hide hightail skedaddle skip
WEAK
clear out cut and run get away hasten away light out make a getaway make a quick exit make off run from steal away take flight
Antonyms
STRONGEST
remain stay
STRONG
confront face
WEAK
arrive obey
VERB
make off
Synonyms
WEAK
abscond bolt clear cut and run decamp depart escape fly go leave make away quit retire run run off scamper scoot skedaddle skip withdraw
Antonyms
WEAK
stay wait

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Instead of making a run for it, he resolves to hunker down until the heat is off.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 9, 2025

“That was the first moment I thought, should I run for it? But it wasn’t an option, so I just stayed — and that’s the moment I realized I should just do whatever they say.”

From Los Angeles Times • May 13, 2025

Evolutionarily, triggering the sympathetic nervous system or “fight or flight” response was helpful for survival when human beings were threatened by wild animals or needed to make a run for it.

From Salon • Apr. 3, 2024

Artyom doesn’t have much sympathy for draft dodgers and deserters, though he can see the wisdom in making a run for it.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 25, 2023

A clicking sound echoes from somewhere far away, and the cat sitting on the trash can makes a run for it.

From "Legend" by Marie Lu

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.