ENGLISH
REFERENCE

run of play

idiom
Meaning

A passage of play; a series of consecutive moments, considered as a whole.


Examples
SIMPLE

The home team dominated the run of play during the first half.

CONTEXTUAL

Despite the score being tied, the visitors controlled the run of play for most of the match.

COMPLEX

Although the underdog managed to score a lucky goal, the overall run of play clearly favored the defending champions throughout the entire contest.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    break into a run

    To start running.

  2. 02

    child's play

    Something particularly easy or simple.

  3. 03

    common run

    Ordinary persons, things, or events.

  4. 04

    dry run

    A practice or rehearsal; especially, one that goes through all the motions of a physical process but without the raw material or workpiece present.

  5. 05

    dummy run

    A trial or practice before the real attempt.

  6. 06

    go play in the traffic

    To go elsewhere and feel free to engage in risky behavior; to get lost.

  7. 07

    good run

    Success over an extended period.

  8. 08

    grandstand play

    A successful play or other manoeuvre during a sporting competition in which one or more players shows off unnecessarily in order to entertain or impress the spectators.

Last updated April 17, 2026