run-up

run-up
ˈrun-up noun
1. the run-up to something the period of time just before an important event:
    in the run-up to the election
2. [countable] the act of running, or the distance that you run, before you kick a ball, jump over a pole etc

run-upBrE /ˈrʌn ʌp/ 🔊NAmE /ˈrʌn ʌp/ 🔊 noun (BrE) (also less frequent ˈrun-in) ~ (to sth) a period of time leading up to an important event; the preparation for this （重要事情的）前期；准备阶段；准备◆an increase in spending in the run-up to Christmas圣诞节前花费的增加◆during the run-up to the election在选举前的准备阶段the act of running or the distance you run, to gain speed before you jump a long distance, throw a ball, etc. 助跑；助跑距离