- run for one's money
- *a run for one's money1. Fig. the results or rewards one deserves, expects, or wants. (*Typically: get \run for one's money; have \run for one's money; give someone \run for one's money.) •
I get a run for my money at the club tennis tournament.
•I had a run for my money in the stock market.
2. Fig. a challenge. (*Typically: get \run for one's money; have \run for one's money; give someone \run for one's money.) •Bob got a run for his money when he tried to beat Mary at pool.
•Bill got a run for his money playing cards with John.
* * *{n. phr.} 1. A good fight; a hard struggle. - Usually used with "give" or "get". * /Our team didn't win the game, but they gave the other team a run for their money./ 2. Satisfaction; interest; excitement. - Usually used with "give" or "get". * /People like to watch the champion fight because they get a good run for their money from him./ * /A good student gives a teacher more than a run for his money./
Dictionary of American idioms. 2013.