ENGLISH
REFERENCE

runaway

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈɹənəˌweɪ// UK //ɹˈʌnəwˌeɪ// run·away Informal

adj. describing something that is increasing or improving very quickly and cannot be stopped. You use it for trends, successes, or problems that are growing fast.

adj. characterized by rapid, unchecked growth or success; often used attributively before a noun to describe a trend, victory, or problem that is expanding quickly and uncontrollably.


SIMPLE

The new app is a runaway success.

CONTEXTUAL

The company became a runaway leader in the electric vehicle market after its latest launch.

COMPLEX

The candidate's runaway victory in the primary election signaled a decisive shift in the party's direction.

Synonyms
Origin

Deverbal from run away.

Usage

Typically used attributively before a noun (e.g., 'runaway success', 'runaway inflation').

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