Make A Run For It Nyt

Make a Run for It: A Comprehensive Guide to the Idiom and Its Use in The New York Times

Introduction

The phrase “make a run for it” is a common idiom in English, often used to describe a swift, determined effort to achieve a goal or escape a situation. While its origins are rooted in sports and physical activity, the phrase has evolved to carry broader metaphorical meanings. In the context of The New York Times (NYT), this expression frequently appears in sports journalism, political commentary, and even business reporting, where it underscores urgency, ambition, or strategic maneuvering. This article explores the meaning, history, and application of “make a run for it,” with a focus on its role in the NYT’s editorial and reporting style.

What Does “Make a Run for It” Mean?

At its core, “make a run for it” refers to a rapid, often desperate attempt to accomplish something. The phrase is typically used in situations where time, distance, or obstacles are involved. For example, in sports, a player might “make a run for the end zone” to score a touchdown. In everyday language, it can describe someone rushing to catch a bus, fleeing a danger, or pursuing a career opportunity.

The phrase’s structure—“make a run for it”—combines the verb “make” (to initiate an action) with “run” (to move quickly) and “for it” (to a specific target or goal). This construction emphasizes both the action and the objective, making it a versatile idiom.

The Origin of the Phrase

The exact origin of “make a run for it” is unclear, but its roots lie in 19th-century sports terminology. In baseball, for instance, a “run” refers to a player’s attempt to reach a base, while “run for it” might describe a player sprinting to avoid being tagged out. Over time, the phrase expanded beyond sports, entering general usage to describe any urgent, goal-oriented action.

The New York Times has long embraced idiomatic language in its reporting, often using phrases like “make a run for it” to add vividness to its narratives. For example, in a 2021 article about the Tokyo Olympics, the NYT wrote, “The sprinter made a run for the finish line, defying the odds to secure a gold medal.” Such usage highlights the phrase’s adaptability and relevance in modern journalism.

Detailed Explanation: How the Phrase Works

1. Literal vs. Figurative Use

• Literal: In sports or physical contexts, “make a run for it” describes a direct, high-speed effort to reach a destination. For instance, a runner in a marathon might “make a run for the finish line” to break a personal record.
• Figurative: In non-physical contexts, the phrase takes on a metaphorical meaning. A business executive might “make a run for market dominance,” while a politician could “make a run for the presidency.” Here, the “run” symbolizes a strategic, high-stakes endeavor.

2. Grammar and Structure

The phrase follows a standard idiomatic structure:

• Subject + make a run for + [goal/objective]
  • Example: “The team made a run for the championship.”
  • Example: “She made a run for the promotion.”

This structure allows the phrase to be applied across disciplines, from athletics to corporate strategy.

Step-by-Step Breakdown: How to Use “Make a Run for It”

Step 1: Identify the Goal

Determine what the subject is trying to achieve. This could be a physical objective (e.g., winning a race) or an abstract one (e.g., gaining public support).

Step 2: Emphasize Urgency

The phrase inherently conveys a sense of time sensitivity. Use it when the action is critical and time-bound.

Step 3: Choose the Right Context

Avoid overusing the phrase in formal writing. It works best in sports, business, or political reporting, where the metaphor of a “run” aligns with the narrative.

Step 4: Pair with Descriptive Language

Enhance the phrase with adjectives or adverbs to add depth. For example:

• “The underdog made a desperate run for the title.”
• “The startup made a bold run for innovation.”

Real-World Examples from The New York Times

Example 1: Sports Reporting

In a 2018 article about the FIFA World Cup, the NYT wrote:

“The Brazilian team made a run for the final, overcoming a series of setbacks to secure their place in the knockout stages.”
Here, “make a run for it” highlights the team’s relentless effort to advance in the tournament.

Beyond the Finish Line: Expanding the Application of “Make a Run For It”

While the New York Times examples demonstrate the phrase’s effectiveness in sports reporting, its utility extends far beyond the athletic arena. Journalists increasingly leverage “make a run for it” to capture the dynamism and ambition inherent in a wide range of narratives. Consider, for instance, a 2022 piece detailing a small, independent bookstore’s struggle against online retailers – the article might describe the owner “making a run for local market share,” emphasizing the challenging but determined effort to retain customers. Similarly, a report on a climate change activist group could portray them “making a run for policy change,” signifying their persistent campaign to influence legislation.

The phrase’s power lies in its ability to succinctly communicate a focused, energetic pursuit. It’s a compact way to illustrate a concerted effort, often against significant odds, and inject a sense of momentum into a story. Furthermore, its flexibility allows journalists to adapt it to diverse scenarios – from a scientist “making a run for a breakthrough discovery” to a community organization “making a run for neighborhood revitalization.” The key is to ensure the metaphorical “run” genuinely reflects the subject’s strategic and purposeful action.

Analyzing the phrase’s usage reveals a subtle shift in journalistic style, moving towards more evocative and active language. It’s a deliberate choice to move beyond passive descriptions and instead portray subjects as actively striving towards a defined objective. This technique resonates with readers, creating a more engaging and memorable experience.

Ultimately, “make a run for it” is more than just a colorful idiom; it’s a strategic tool for journalists seeking to vividly illustrate ambition, determination, and the often-difficult journey towards success. Its continued prevalence in contemporary reporting underscores its enduring relevance and adaptability within the evolving landscape of news writing.

Conclusion: The phrase “make a run for it” has firmly established itself as a valuable asset in the journalist’s toolkit. Its versatility, combined with its ability to convey urgency and strategic intent, ensures its continued use in capturing the essence of compelling narratives across a multitude of fields. As reporting evolves, this succinct and impactful idiom will undoubtedly remain a potent instrument for bringing stories to life.

Building on this dynamic approach, the phrase “make a run for it” also resonates in everyday storytelling, offering a vivid framework for illustrating personal resilience or entrepreneurial spirit. Imagine a local chef launching a new fusion restaurant in a saturated city scene—each day brings new challenges, and the narrative becomes one of relentless determination to carve out a unique space. Similarly, a tech startup founder might frame their journey as a “run for innovation,” highlighting the high stakes and relentless pace required to disrupt established markets. These examples underscore the phrase’s adaptability, transforming it into a universal shorthand for ambition in any endeavor.

Beyond individual stories, “make a run for it” can also capture broader societal movements. Consider a community campaign against urban pollution, where activists “make a run for clean air,” turning abstract goals into tangible, visible efforts. Such narratives not only humanize complex issues but also inspire collective action by emphasizing the importance of persistent, frontline engagement. In this way, the phrase becomes a catalyst for empathy, reminding audiences of the human stakes behind larger stories.

As journalists continue to refine their language, embracing such metaphors enriches the depth of their reporting, bridging the gap between abstract concepts and relatable experiences. It encourages a more immersive reading experience, drawing readers into the heartbeat of each subject.

In conclusion, the enduring appeal of “make a run for it” lies in its capacity to distill ambition into actionable imagery. Whether applied to personal aspirations, cultural shifts, or global challenges, this phrase remains a compelling lens through which to view the pursuit of progress. Its continued relevance affirms the power of language to shape perception and inspire change.