A Run for My Money
Meaning
“A run for my money” means giving someone a strong challenge or making them work hard to succeed. If someone “gives me a run for my money,” they perform well enough to make me work for my victory.
Despite the reference to money, the phrase is not necessarily about gambling or finances. It comes from the idea of getting a worthwhile challenge or competition in return for what you have invested.
Usage
The expression is informal and is most often used when talking about competition, ability, or performance. It can be used whether the speaker ultimately wins or loses.
The most common structure is “give someone a run for their money.” It can describe anything from a close sports match to a talented competitor, a difficult opponent, or even a child who keeps an experienced adult on their toes.
Example Sentences
- The young tennis player gave the champion a real run for her money.
- I thought I would win easily, but my brother gave me a run for my money.
- Our new competitor is giving us a serious run for our money.
- The underdog gave the defending champions a run for their money.
- My little sister may be younger, but she can certainly give me a run for my money in a video game.