What does run as administrator mean Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈrʌn æz ædmɪnɪstreɪtər/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Phrase

Definition

A phrase used to describe running a program or application with elevated privileges, allowing it to access restricted areas of the operating system, typically requiring administrative permissions.

Examples

• To install the software, right-click the installer and select “Run as administrator”.
• Some applications require you to run as administrator to function properly.

Synonyms

• Run as admin
• Elevate privileges

Antonyms

• Run as user
• Standard privileges

Additional Information

In Windows operating systems, the “Run as administrator” option is typically accessed by right-clicking the application’s executable file or shortcut and selecting the appropriate option from the context menu. On macOS, this is achieved by using the “sudo” command in the Terminal app or by enabling the “root” user account.

Etymology

The phrase “Run as administrator” originated from the early days of computing, where system administrators needed to elevate their privileges to perform tasks that required high-level access. Over time, the term became widely used in graphical user interfaces, particularly in Windows operating systems.

Usage Notes

When using the phrase “Run as administrator”, be sure to only do so when necessary, as it can pose security risks if used unnecessarily. Additionally, always be cautious when granting elevated privileges to unknown or untrusted applications.

Cultural References

The phrase “Run as administrator” has been featured in various forms of media, including films, TV shows, and video games, often used as a plot device to grant characters elevated access to restricted areas or systems.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

None noted.

Related Words or Phrases

• System administrator
• Elevated privileges
• Root access

Collocations

• Right-click and select “Run as administrator”
• Require administrative privileges

Frequency of Use

The phrase “Run as administrator” is commonly used in computing and IT contexts, with a moderate frequency of use in everyday conversation.

Common Misspellings

• Rune as administrator
• Run as administor