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Run a Red Light

What Does "Run a Red Light" Mean?

homeidiomsRun a Red Light
"Run a red light" is an English idiom. It means "to drive a vehicle through a traffic signal that is displaying a red light, indicating that vehicles should stop; to disregard a red traffic signal."

Examples in Sentences

Here are three examples of the idiom "run a red light" used in a sentence:
  • Running a red light is a dangerous traffic violation that can lead to accidents and serious consequences.
  • He was fined for running a red light at the intersection, endangering both himself and other drivers.
  • Drivers are urged to obey traffic signals and never run a red light to prevent accidents and maintain road safety.
meaning for run a red light

What Is an Idiom?

An idiom is a commonly used expression whose meaning does not relate to the literal meaning of its words. In other words, if you were to translate "Run a Red Light" word for word, there is no guarantee the translation would help you to understand the meaning.

An idiom often includes a cultural or historical context that makes it difficult for non-native English speakers to understand. A phrase is classified as an idiom when a direct translation of the words does not reveal the meaning. Most idioms rely on shared knowledge or experiences known only to a specific community.

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