From Longman Dictionary of Contemporary Englishthe run-up to somethingthe run-up to somethingBEFOREthe period of time just before an important event in the run-up to the election → run-up
Examples from the Corpus
the run-up to something• Doubts about Mr Hague's longevity are not new, but are increasingly damaging in the run-up to an election.• Sheila Geddes, Sid Clarke and all the others who had contributed their efforts in the run-up to the launch.• The three are fighting over control of the provincial assemblies, which will be important in the run-up to the election.• Competition has hit a new high with many attractive offers in the run-up to Christmas.• Despite medical advice about sensible drinking, many people still over-indulge, particularly in the run-up to Christmas and the New Year.• Recently, they developed a roll of film found in Paul's old camera, taken in the run-up to the fighting.• It said that in the run-up to an election, it would comment on planning opportunities based on pronouncements by political parties.• In the run-up to Christmas, their games are selling faster than ever.• These performances are part of the run-up to the Center's anniversary celebrations. 