Give a Run for One’s Money | What’s that mean?
What’s the meaning of GIVE A RUN FOR ONE’S MONEY? Have you ever heard someone say “They really gave me a run for my money” and wondered what that means?
This common English expression is used in everyday conversations, sports, business, and even friendly competition. In this post, you’ll learn the meaning, origin, real-life examples, and a few fun facts about the expression give a run for one’s money.
What Does Give a Run for One’s Money Mean?
According to the Cambridge Online Dictionary, give a run for one’s money means:
to not allow someone to win easily; to be similar in quality to or almost better than someone or something:
It does not mean losing. In fact, it often suggests the opposite: you performed very well, even if you didn’t win.
In simple terms, you made things difficult, challenging, or competitive for the other person.
Examples
Here are some natural examples you might hear in everyday English:
- The new company gave the market leader a run for their money.
- She didn’t win the race, but she really gave the champion a run for his money.
- Our team gave them a run for their money in the final match.
- This small café gives big chains a run for their money.
- A new phone company is giving the others a run for their money.
- We may not win the game, but let’s give them a run for their money.
In all these cases, the idea is strong competition, not easy victory.
Where Does the Expression Come From?
GIVE A RUN FOR ONE’S MONEY comes from horse racing in the 19th century.
In the past:
- People placed money on horses
- If a horse ran well, even without winning, bettors felt their money was well spent
So, a horse that gave others a run for their money was one that made the race exciting and competitive.
Over time, the expression moved from racing into general English.
Fun Facts About the Expression
- You can use it in positive situations only, it’s usually a compliment
- It’s common in sports, business, and friendly rivalry
- You can use it even when someone loses, as long as they perform well
NOTE » You usually don’t use it for serious conflicts or negative situations. It’s about fair competition, not fights.
Similar Expressions in English
Here are a few expressions with a similar idea:
- put up a good fight
- be strong competition
- challenge someone
- keep someone on their toes
Final Thoughts
The expression give someone a run for their money is a great example of how English uses sports and competition metaphors in everyday language. It’s positive, natural, and very common in modern English.
If you understand this expression, you’ll recognize it everywhere, from conversations and news articles to movies and social media.
» Toque aqui para aprende outras expressões com origem no mundo dos esportes
