The word "running off" has two syllables and can be transcribed in IPA as ˈrʌnɪŋ ˈɒf. The first syllable "run" is pronounced with a short u sound (ʌ) and ends with the consonant sound of "n". The second syllable "ning" features a long i sound (ɪ) followed by the velar nasal consonant "ŋ". The word "off" has a short o sound (ɒ) and ends with the consonant sound of "f". Overall, the spelling of "running off" accurately reflects its pronunciation.
Running off is a phrasal verb that can have several meanings depending on the context in which it is used.
One possible definition of running off is when someone leaves quickly or suddenly without permission or explanation. In this sense, it implies an action of escaping or fleeing. For instance, a child who runs off from their parents in a crowded place might be said to have run off. Similarly, an employee who runs off from work without alerting their supervisor might also be described as running off.
Another definition of running off pertains to the process of producing copies or prints. In this sense, running off refers to operating a printing machine to create multiple copies of a document or piece of work. This could involve the use of a photocopier or a printing press to produce large quantities of identical material.
In the context of a race or competition, running off can refer to starting to run quickly in order to gain an advantage or catch up with others. It implies an action of accelerating suddenly to move faster than others participating in the same event.
Lastly, running off can also describe the drainage or flow of liquid substances, usually associated with the undesired leakage or spillage of a fluid. For instance, if a faucet or pipe is leaking water, one might say that it is running off.
Overall, running off can have different meanings depending on the situation, including escaping, printing copies, accelerating in a race, or liquid drainage.
The phrase "running off" consists of two words: "running" and "off".
1. Running: The word "running" is derived from the Old English word "rinnan", which means "to flow" or "to run". It has its roots in the Proto-Germanic word "renwanan", meaning "to flow" or "to melt", and is also related to the Old High German word "rinnan" and the Dutch word "runnen". Over time, "rinnan" evolved into "runnen" in Middle English, before becoming "running" in Modern English.
2. Off: The word "off" comes from the Old English word "of", which has its roots in the Proto-Germanic word "af". The usage of "off" in this context is to indicate separation or departure.