Do a runner: The English We Speak
source: BBC Learning English 2018年1月8日
Rob's running away from something – but what is it and why? This seems like a perfect example of 'doing a runner' and lucky Feifei is around to explain what that means. Watch this programme to find out more.
Transcript (from http://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/...)
Feifei
Welcome to The English We Speak, I'm Feifei...
Rob
And I'm Rob. Quick Feifei, shut that door.
Feifei
OK, calm down Rob, what's the problem?
Rob
Well there's something going on in the office – everyone's shouting and arguing about who broke the computer – you know, the new one with all that fancy software on it.
Feifei
Oh yes, that really expensive one. So you've run away from the situation – that makes you look very guilty.
Rob
That's true – but the problem is, I am guilty. But the boss seemed so angry, I thought it best to… well… sort of…
Feifei
Do a runner!
Rob
If you mean to leave a place in order to avoid a difficult or unpleasant situation – then I suppose you're right.
Feifei
I am!
Rob
Oh no, is someone coming? I'll just hide under the desk while we hear some examples of this phrase in action…
Examples
The new trainee did a runner after the first day – I don't think he could cope with the high-pressure environment.
When they started to blame me for the mistake, I felt it best to do a runner and keep out of the way.
Feifei
So that's the phrase, to do a runner, which means leave a place quickly in order to avoid a difficult or unpleasant situation. But Rob, this phrase has another similar meaning too?
Rob
Yes. You can 'do a runner' from a place to avoid paying for something.
Feifei
Like a restaurant. Have you done that Rob?
Rob
Of course not! You know how honest I am.
Feifei
Honest? Is that why you are hiding in this studio, rather than admit you broke the new computer?
Rob
Well, it was an accident. Oh no... the boss is heading straight for the studio. I had better dash… see ya.
Feifei
Bye Rob. It looks like he's done a runner... again. Bye.
