# run around after

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/run-around-after
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To spend a lot of time doing things for another person or group of people. Often used when that person could reasonably do the things for themselves.

## Examples

- I am tired of running around after my lazy roommate.
- She spends every weekend running around after her adult children, even though they are perfectly capable of managing their own errands.
- Despite his exhaustion, he continued running around after his demanding guests, ensuring every minor request was met before he finally allowed himself to rest.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.