GIVES RUNAROUND Meaning and
Definition
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To give someone the runaround means to deliberately avoid providing them with a clear and direct answer or solution to a problem or inquiry. This idiom suggests that the person giving the runaround is being evasive, uncooperative, or deceptive in their response.
When an individual or an organization gives someone the runaround, they often employ various tactics to circumvent or delay addressing the issue at hand. These tactics may include transferring the responsibility to another person or department, repeatedly promising to look into the matter without taking concrete steps, providing misleading information, or imposing unnecessary obstacles. Consequently, the recipient feels frustrated, deceived, or confused due to the lack of straightforwardness from others.
The expression "gives runaround" has its origins in the idea of physically running in circles or taking a long route to avoid direct interaction or confrontation. It conveys the sense of being led on a wild goose chase, without making any real progress towards resolution.
The act of giving the runaround is often associated with bureaucracy, call centers, customer service, or government agencies that have convoluted processes or are intentionally unhelpful. However, it can also be encountered in personal relationships or everyday situations where individuals evade responsibility or accountability.
Overall, when someone gives the runaround, they evade providing a clear response or solution, leading to frustration, confusion, and a lingering sense of irresponsibility or deceit.
Common Misspellings for GIVES RUNAROUND
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Etymology of GIVES RUNAROUND
The phrase "gives runaround" is an idiomatic expression that originated in the English language.
The word "give" in this context means to provide or present something, while "runaround" refers to the act of avoiding or evading an issue or question.
The origin of this phrase is believed to be rooted in American slang that emerged in the early 20th century. It likely comes from the image of someone being led around in circles or on a wild goose chase, consistently being diverted from the main point or solution they are seeking.
Overall, the etymology of "gives runaround" is derived from the combination of the verb "give" and the noun "runaround", forming a metaphorical expression that describes someone deliberately avoiding a direct answer or action.
