English idiom · neutral · spoken & written · BrE & AmE

run down: meaning and examples

run down means tired and slightly unwell.

Memory hook: Build a clear mental picture from “run down” and connect it to this meaning: tired and slightly unwell.

How to use “run down”

Common mistake: Treat “run down” as a fixed expression. Notice its exact word order in the examples.

Learn it in context

This expression belongs to Lesson 15, where you can compare it with other idioms about health and practise it interactively.

Open the full lesson →

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