Run rings around/round somebody

usgb
phrase

To be much better than someone, especially in a competitive situation.

John's skills in chess are phenomenal, he can run rings around any player in the club.
Visual representation of "run rings around/round somebody" - To be much better than someone, especially in a competitive situation.

Often appears as...

  • can run rings around
  • they run rings around

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "run rings around/round somebody"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Competitive Edge

Used to emphasize someone's significant advantage in skills or ability in a competitive setting.

Illustration for Competitive Edge
She runs rings around her peers in mathematics.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Not Literal

The phrase is figurative and not to be taken as someone physically running in circles.

Illustration for Not Literal
During the debate, it was clear he could run rings around his opponent.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Informal Usage

Common in casual conversations, less so in formal contexts.

Illustration for Informal Usage
In the kitchen, she can easily run rings around me.
Visual representation of the word "Run rings around/round somebody"

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