In English, the word “run” is one of the most flexible words you’ll ever come across.
At first, learners usually think it only means moving quickly on foot. But in reality, “run” appears in everyday conversation, business English, technology, and idioms, often with meanings that have nothing to do with running at all.
Let’s explore how “run” works as both a verb and a noun, and why it’s such an important word to understand.
Using “Run” as a Verb: Actions and Processes
As a verb, “run” is used to describe movement, control, operation, and even problems.
Physical Movement
The most obvious meaning of “run” is physical movement, moving quickly using your legs.
Example:
She runs every morning before work.
This meaning is literal and easy to understand, but it’s only the starting point.
Operating and Controlling Things
Very often, “run” means to operate or to manage something.
You can run:
- a business
- a meeting
- a machine
- a computer program
Examples:
She runs a small café in the city centre.
This software runs in the background.
In these cases, “run” has nothing to do with physical movement, it’s about control and function.
Systems, Processes, and Events
“Run” is also used for things that continue over time.
Examples:
The course runs for six weeks.
The exhibition is running until Friday.
Here, “run” means to last or to take place.
Problems and Uncontrolled Situations
Sometimes, “run” suggests something going wrong or becoming difficult to control.
Examples:
We’ve run out of milk.
The costs are running too high.
Things quickly ran out of control.
In these cases, run is often paired with prepositions or adverbs to create phrasal verbs, which are very common in English.
Using “Run” as a Noun: Periods and Sequences
As a noun, “run” has several useful meanings, especially in work and everyday life.
A Period of Activity
A run can mean a continuous period of activity.
Examples:
He went on a long run after work.
The theatre show had a successful run.
A Series or Sequence
“Run” can also describe a series of similar events.
Examples:
The team had a run of bad luck.
The shop is offering a limited run of products.
Idiomatic and Figurative Uses of “Run”
“Run” appears in many idiomatic expressions that learners often find confusing.
Common examples include:
- run into trouble – experience problems
- run out of time – have no time left
- run the risk – accept possible danger
- run someone down – criticize or insult them
These expressions are extremely common in spoken English and are essential for sounding natural.
Does English sometimes run away from you?
“Run” may seem like a simple verb, but it’s one of the hardest English words for learners to fully master.
From physical movement to business, technology, time, and problems, “run” appears in countless situations.
Understanding how versatile this word is will:
- improve your listening comprehension
- help you speak more naturally
- reduce confusion with phrasal verbs and idioms
Whether you’re talking about exercise, managing a business, software, or everyday problems, “run” is always being used, it is one of the most common words in English.
A good ESL tutor can break down words like this and help you practice them in real conversation. If you’re thinking about improving your spoken English, you’re welcome to book a stress-free intro session with me.
