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Run down/out the clock

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Sports Origin

Originally from sports, used when a team tries to preserve a lead by holding onto the ball.

Illustration for Sports Origin
After scoring, the football team would run down the clock to end the match.
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Strategy Implication

Implies a strategic choice to waste time, often viewed negatively by those waiting.

Illustration for Strategy Implication
The student tried to run out the clock during the exam, avoiding the hard questions.
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Tension Builder

Can create suspense or frustration for the audience anticipating the game's outcome.

Illustration for Tension Builder
The audience was on edge as the team kept running down the clock.
Visual representation of the word "Run down/out the clock"

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