run

verb/rʌn/ 🔊 listen

run is one of the most multi-meaning English verbs. The core is “to move fast on foot”, but it ranges from managing to flowing. Irregular: run → ran → run.

📖 Meanings

1to run (on foot)
"I run every morning." — (jog)
2to manage, operate (business)
"She runs a small café." — (manage)
3to work (machine/program)
"The app runs on any phone." — (operate)
4to flow (water)
"Don't leave the water running." — (flow)
5to run for office (election)
"He's running for president." — (be a candidate)
6to last (duration)
"The show runs for two hours." — (last)

⚠️ Forms

PresentPastPast Participle
runranrun

🔄 Often confused

💬 Phrasal verbs

run out ofrun laterun into
❓ What does “She runs a café” mean?