run someone/something to ground idiom Meaning

Idiom: Run someone/something to ground

Definition:
To chase someone or something until they are caught or no longer can evade. This phrase is often used to describe the act of pursuing a person to the point of cornering or capturing them, particularly in a hunting or investigative context. It can also apply to situations where one is relentlessly searching for information or evidence until it is discovered or confirmed.

Usage:

• “The detective ran the suspect to ground after weeks of searching.”
• “The journalist was determined to run the truth to ground, no matter how long it took.”

Etymology:
The phrase originates from hunting terminology, where “to ground” refers to an animal being driven into a hole, den or burrow, where it can no longer escape. The use of “run” in this context implies a chase or pursuit. The idiom has been incorporated into written and spoken English, particularly in contexts involving investigation, pursuit, or diligent searching.

Pronunciation:
/rʌn ˈsʌm.wʌn/ /ˈsʌm.θɪŋ/ /tu/ /ɡraʊnd/

Synonyms:

• Chase down
• Track down
• Pursue vigorously
• Corner
• Hunt down

Antonyms:

• Abandon
• Ignore
• Let go
• Release
• Disregard

This idiom highlights determination in pursuit and reflects a proactive and relentless approach in various scenarios, from law enforcement to personal endeavors in seeking clarity or closure.

1. The detective managed to run the suspect to ground after weeks of searching.
2. After thorough investigation, the journalist finally ran the corruption scandal to ground.
3. The hound quickly ran the fox to ground, ensuring it couldn’t escape.
4. She was determined to run the truth to ground, no matter how long it took.
5. The environmentalists worked tirelessly to run the illegal logging operation to ground.

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