have someone on the run

have (one) on the run

To have one in a vulnerable position. After scoring five goals in the first period, we really had our opponents on the run. We have them on the run now, boys! Go out there and finish them off! Don't worry, you'll have the senator on the run once you bring up his past tax evasion during the debate.

See also: have, on, run

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

have someone on the run

If you have an opponent on the run, you are performing better than them or are in a stronger position, and can control their actions and defeat them. It is clear that the Opposition thinks it has him on the run. We've got the Government on the run and we'll keep them on the run. Note: You can also say that someone is on the run. They sensed their opponents were on the run.

See also: have, on, run, someone

Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed. © HarperCollins Publishers 2012