The phrase "runs scared" is used to describe someone who is afraid and quickly fleeing from a threatening situation. In IPA phonetic transcription, "runs" is pronounced as /rʌnz/ with the "u" sound being short and the "s" being voiced. "Scared" is pronounced as /skɛərd/ with the "ea" making the sound of "air" and the "r" being pronounced. The spelling of this phrase accurately represents the pronunciation of each individual word and how they are combined to create the meaning of the phrase.
"Runs scared" is an idiomatic expression used to depict a person's behavior or actions when feeling fearful, threatened, or intimidated, leading them to retreat or escape from a situation or an individual. This phrase often implies a sense of panic, urgency, or desperation in the person's attempt to flee the circumstances that they perceive as dangerous or overwhelming.
The term derives from the word "runs," which portrays a swift, hasty, or impulsive movement, and "scared," which signifies a state of being frightened, anxious, or alarmed. When someone "runs scared," they tend to act in a manner that suggests a loss of composure or rationality due to their fear or apprehension.
A person may "run scared" in various contexts, such as attempting to evade a pursuing threat, escaping an undesirable or hostile situation, or avoiding responsibility or accountability to prevent potential negative consequences. This phrase can be applied in both physical and metaphorical settings, referring to actions taken to avoid not only physical harm but also potential emotional or psychological distress.
Overall, the expression "runs scared" indicates a reactive behavior characterized by intense fear or unease, often resulting in impulsive or hurried actions aimed at seeking safety, protection, or avoidance.
The phrase "runs scared" is a colloquial expression that means to act or behave in a fearful or panicked manner.
The word "runs" in this context refers to the act of fleeing or running away from a situation or threat. "Scared" is the past participle form of the word "scare", meaning to provoke fear or anxiety.
The etymology of the phrase can be traced back to early English, where both "runs" and "scared" were commonly used words. The combination of the two words would have naturally formed in colloquial speech to convey the idea of running away in fear. The exact origin or specific usage of the phrase is challenging to pinpoint due to its colloquial nature.