run of the mill

Meaning

This expression describes something that is completely ordinary, average, or unexceptional, with nothing special to make it stand out. It is commonly used to describe hotels, restaurants, tourist attractions, or experiences that didn't live up to high expectations but weren't terrible either. The tone is neutral or slightly disappointing.

Examples

• The hotel was just run of the mill, but it was clean and close to the subway.

  The hotel was just run of the mill, but it was clean and close to the subway.

• I was expecting a spectacular view, but it turned out to be a run-of-the-mill tourist trap.

  I was expecting a spectacular view, but it turned out to be a run-of-the-mill tourist trap.

• We ended up eating at a run-of-the-mill diner because nothing else was open.

  We ended up eating at a run-of-the-mill diner because nothing else was open.

• Her flight was run of the mill—no delays, standard food, and an average seat.

  Her flight was run of the mill—no delays, standard food, and an average seat.

• It wasn't a historic landmark, just a run-of-the-mill office building.

  It wasn't a historic landmark, just a run-of-the-mill office building.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ The food was very run of the mill, it was the best I've ever had!

  ✓ The food was incredible, it was the best I've ever had!

  'Run of the mill' means average or ordinary, so it cannot be used to praise something as outstanding or extraordinary.

• ✗ He is a run of mill tourist.

  ✓ He is a run-of-the-mill tourist.

  Do not omit the article 'the' in the middle of the phrase.

Related Expressions

Practice

• Don't expect luxury; it's just a ___ hostel with basic amenities.

  💡 Completely ordinary or average.

  Show answer

  run of the mill

• Instead of a unique local experience, we got a ___ guided tour.

  💡 Unexceptional and standard.

  Show answer

  run of the mill