run high

Idioms and Phrases

Be intense, as in Feelings are running high on the issue of raising taxes . This expression, first recorded in 1711, transfers the strong currents or tides that make for high waves to human concerns.

Example Sentences

Sometimes when tensions run high, even our esteemed elders show a certain lack of maturity.

From The Daily Beast

My food tastes run high and low, and I travel whenever I can.

From The Daily Beast

We think it a pleasant variety when a stiff breeze makes the waves run high.

From Project Gutenberg

Our cheeks are flushed as with a fever, and our pulses run high this morning.

From Project Gutenberg

Bets run high, with stakes mostly "something good to eat" after the "muster out."

From Project Gutenberg

Toasts are drunk, speeches are made, wine flows freely, and spirits run high.

From Project Gutenberg

Walking on the water is a great feat if it be calm, but when the waves run high it is still more wonderful.

From Project Gutenberg