Give someone a run for their money
/ɡɪv ˌsʌmwʌn ə rʌn fə ðeə ˈmʌni/informalUK · US
What does “Give someone a run for their money” mean?
Give someone a run for their money means to compete strongly against someone
A school team can give the champions a run for their money even if it loses by one point. The close contest is what matters.
This is different from “value for money”, which judges whether something was worth its price.
When do people say it?
Often said about a challenger who makes a stronger opponent work hard. It does not mean the challenger necessarily wins.
“Our young team gave the champions a run for their money.”
Is it formal or informal?
Register: informal. It is most at home in everyday conversation rather than formal writing. Most common in UK and US.
Where does it come from?
The phrase pictures a contest in which the opponent has to work for the result. In everyday use, no money needs to change hands.
Origin confidence: Disputed; treat with caution
How do you say “Give someone a run for their money” in other languages?
Last updated 2026-11-04