Pronunciation: [ɹˈʌn ɐhˈɛd] (IPA) 
The phrase "run ahead" is spelled with the IPA symbols /rʌn/ for "run" and /əˈhɛd/ for "ahead." The "r" in "run" is pronounced with a quick, unvoiced burst of air, followed by the vowel sound /ʌ/ (like the "u" in "hut"). The stress falls on the first syllable: RUHN-uhed. "Ahead" is pronounced with stress on the second syllable, the vowel sound /ɛ/ (like the "e" in "bet") and the vowel schwa sound /ə/ in the first syllable.
"Run ahead" is a phrasal verb that involves moving forward or progressing hastily compared to someone or something else. It signifies the act of moving in advance or taking the lead in a particular race, journey, or process. This term can be literal, describing physical movements, or figurative, indicating actions or thoughts that are ahead of others.
In a literal sense, "run ahead" often refers to someone sprinting or moving swiftly in front of others, either during a race or a shared movement. This is commonly seen in sports competitions like track and field, where athletes compete to reach the finish line before their opponents. Similarly, it can describe an individual speeding up their pace while walking or running to outstrip their companions or reach a destination earlier than planned.
Figuratively, "run ahead" implies being ahead of others in terms of ideas, plans, or progress. It could denote someone who thinks or acts more quickly or creatively than those surrounding them. For instance, in brainstorming sessions or group discussions, a person who "runs ahead" generates innovative concepts before the rest of the group, pushing the limits of conventional thinking. In business or project management, someone who "runs ahead" anticipates challenges, makes proactive decisions, or takes actions to accelerate progress, resulting in an advantageous position.
Overall, "run ahead" depicts the action of moving swiftly or surpassing others either physically or metaphorically, and it is often associated with a competitive edge, proactive thinking, or surpassing one's own limitations.
The etymology of the phrase "run ahead" is fairly straightforward.
"Run" is derived from the Old English word "rinnan" meaning "to flow", which later evolved to "runnen" in Middle English, and eventually became "run" in Modern English.
The word "ahead" originated from the Middle English term "on heafod" which means "at the head". Over time, "on heafod" transformed into "aheved" and eventually "ahead".
When combined, "run" and "ahead" denote the action of moving or progressing in front of others.
