Run Amok vs Run Amuck
What’s the difference between them?
Run Amok
Meaning:
Go wild; behave wildly and violently, out of control.
Examples:
1. The teacher was unable to quiet the rowdy students who were running amok in the classroom.
2. The townspeople were frightened when the madman ran amok in the streets.
3. All of the animals in the zoo started running amok when the power went out.
Run Amuck
Meaning:
old-fashioned spelling of 'run-amok.'
Examples:
no examples
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Run Amok
1. Go Berserk
2. Run Wild
3. Rake Havoc
4. Galavant
5. Rampage
1. Stand Still
2. Follow Instructions
3. Conform
4. Obey Rules
5. Abide by Regulations
Run Amuck
This word doesn't exist, so there are no synonyms for it.
This word doesn't exist, so there are no antonyms for it.
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Run Amok", "Run Amuck".
1. 'Run amok' is the more contemporary and widely accepted spelling. Think of it as the 'OK' version - am'ok'.
2. 'Amuck' is the older, archaic form of the term. Remember it by associating 'uck' with 'antique' or 'old-fashioned.'
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
In what situations should the first word be used?
'Run Amok' should typically be used when referring to a situation in which someone or something is causing chaos or behaving in a wild, uncontrolled manner.
When is the appropriate context for using the second word?
'Run Amuck' is an old-fashioned spelling and should be avoided.
Do the two words share the same pronunciation?
No, the two words actually have different pronunciations. 'Run Amok' is pronounced 'run ah-mok' and 'Run Amuck' is pronounced 'run ah-muhk'.
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
One of the most common mistakes people make when using these words is confusing the two. Although they have similar meanings, they have different pronunciations and are spelled differently. Additionally, some people may mistakenly use 'Run Amuck' when they should be using 'Run Amok'.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. After being cut off in traffic, the angry driver began to _________ through downtown.
2. The new student was so eager to impress the teacher that she ended up _________ in the classroom.
3. After winning the tournament, the young athlete _________ around the stadium.
4. The escaped convict was _________ through the streets of the town.
5. The children _________ through the woods, screaming with joy.
6. When the music started, the guests _________ out of the room.
1. Run amok
Explanation: This phrase means to behave in a wild and uncontrolled way, which fits the context of the angry driver.
2. run amok
Explanation: This phrase means to behave in an uncontrolled and violent way, which fits the context of the eager student.
3. Ran amok
Explanation: This phrase means to behave in a wild and uncontrolled way, which fits the context of the young athlete.
4. ran amok
Explanation: This phrase means to behave in an uncontrolled and violent way, which fits the context of the escaped convict.
5. Ran amok
Explanation: This phrase means to behave in a wild and uncontrolled way, which fits the context of the children running through the woods.
6. ran amok
Explanation: This phrase means to behave in an uncontrolled and violent way, which fits the context of the guests running out of the room.
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List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.