The phrase "runs together" is spelled with the IPA phonetic transcription /rʌnz təˈɡeðər/. The first syllable "runs" is pronounced with the vowel sound /ʌ/, followed by the consonant blend /nz/. The second syllable, "together" begins with the consonant sound /t/, followed by the vowel sound /ə/, and ends with the voiced consonant sound /ð/ and the fricative sound /ər/. When spoken quickly or casually, these sounds can blend together, causing the phrase to sound like it "runs together".
The term "runs together" refers to the act or experience of two or more things blending or merging into one, making it difficult to distinguish or separate each individual element. This expression is often used to describe situations, events, or perceptions that lack clear boundaries or distinctions.
In the context of time or events, "runs together" suggests that different occurrences or periods seem indistinguishable or conflated. For example, if someone claims that the events of the previous week ran together, they imply that the events were so similar or monotonous that they cannot recall specific details or distinguish one event from another.
When referring to spoken or written language, "runs together" describes the phenomenon of words, phrases, or syllables blending into one another due to sloppy pronunciation or rapid speech. This may occur when someone speaks too quickly or fails to articulate words distinctly, resulting in a lack of separation between the sounds.
Additionally, "runs together" can also refer to visual or physical elements that appear as a jumble or blur. For instance, if a person views a series of fast-moving objects or colors that blend into each other, they might say that everything runs together, making it challenging to identify individual components.
Overall, whether pertaining to time, language, or visual elements, "runs together" denotes a lack of distinct separation or identification, either as a result of blending, speed, or poor articulation.
The phrase "runs together" does not have a distinct etymology as it is a combination of two separate words "runs" and "together" that have independent origins.
The word "runs" originates from Old English "rinnan", which means "to flow" or "to move swiftly". Over time, it evolved into the modern English word "runs", referring to the act of moving at a fast pace.
On the other hand, "together" is derived from Old English "tōgædere" which combines the elements "tō" meaning "to" or "into" and "gædere" meaning "together". It essentially means "in company" or "in one place".
When combined, the phrase "runs together" is often used to describe words or sounds that are spoken quickly and indistinctly, without proper separation or clarity.