Run the Clock Down

What Does "Run the Clock Down" Mean?

"Run the clock down" is an English idiom. It means "to deliberately use up or waste time, often in a strategic or tactical context, to reach a specific point or outcome, such as a victory or a desired event."

Examples in Sentences

Here are three examples of the idiom "run the clock down" used in a sentence:

• In the basketball game, the team with the lead attempted to run the clock down by passing the ball and avoiding risky shots.
• During negotiations, one party may try to run the clock down to gain a tactical advantage as the deadline approaches.
• The manager instructed the player to run the clock down by holding onto the ball and delaying the opponent's chances to score.

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 the Clock Down" 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.

A Quick Test

You now know what "run the clock down" means, but are you good at English idioms? Let's see! Show Instructions