Dictionary-enhanced synonyms
Synonyms for “Run” — 13 Other Ways to Say It
To go fast using your legs, with brief moments where neither foot touches the ground.
Meanings of Run — Pick the Sense You Need
Run has 5 common meanings. The synonyms below are grouped by meaning so you can jump straight to the sense you need.
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Meaning #1
as a verb
To go fast using your legs, with brief moments where neither foot touches the ground.
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Meaning #2
as a noun
A period of physical activity where you move fast on your legs; or how far you travel when running.
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Meaning #3
as a noun
When something happens many times in a row or continues for a long period without stopping.
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Meaning #4
as a verb
When a machine, engine, or system is working or operating, it is running.
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Meaning #5
as a verb
To be responsible for making decisions and controlling how something works.
How to Pronounce Run
IPA: /rʌn/ Stress: O
One short syllable with the /ʌ/ vowel like in 'fun' or 'sun', not long /uː/.
3 Synonyms for Run (Meaning #1 — as a verb)
These synonyms work when you use run as a verb. Meaning: To go fast using your legs, with brief moments where neither foot touches the ground.
3 Synonyms for Run (Meaning #2 — as a noun)
These synonyms work when you use run as a noun. Meaning: A period of physical activity where you move fast on your legs; or how far you travel when running.
distance
/ˈdɪstəns/How far apart two places or things are from each other.
Example: The distance between the two cities is 50 kilometers.
3 Synonyms for Run (Meaning #3 — as a noun)
These synonyms work when you use run as a noun. Meaning: When something happens many times in a row or continues for a long period without stopping.
spell
/spɛl/To say or write the letters that make up a word.
Example: Can you spell your name for me?
3 Synonyms for Run (Meaning #4 — as a verb)
These synonyms work when you use run as a verb. Meaning: When a machine, engine, or system is working or operating, it is running.
operate
/ˈɑpəreɪt/To make something work or function; to use or run a machine or device.
Example: The new factory operates twenty-four hours a day.
function
/ˈfʌŋkʃən/To do what something is made for; to work or operate correctly.
Example: The new system functions very well in our office.
work
/wɜːrk/The job you do and tasks you must complete.
Example: I have a lot of work to do today.
3 Synonyms for Run (Meaning #5 — as a verb)
These synonyms work when you use run as a verb. Meaning: To be responsible for making decisions and controlling how something works.
manage
/ˈmænɪdʒ/To control or organize something or someone. If you manage a store, you run it and make decisions about it.
Example: She manages a team of ten people at the office.
direct
/dɪˈrɛkt/Happening in a straight line without detours; also means honest and clear.
Example: This is the direct route to the airport.
control
/kənˈtrəʊl/The ability to make decisions about what something does or how it happens.
Example: The driver lost control of the car on the icy road.
Smart Synonyms for Run — When to Use Each
sprint
for short fast bursts of speed
jog
for slower steady-paced exercise
dash
for sudden quick urgent movement
Antonyms of Run — Opposite Words
How to Use Run and Its Synonyms in Sentences
- I run every morning before work. A1
- She ran to catch the last train home. A2
- Athletes run faster when they pace themselves correctly. B2
- I took a morning run in the park. A2
- The runner completed a five-mile run without stopping. B1
Frequently Asked Questions About Synonyms of Run
What is another word for "run"?
Common synonyms for "run" include: jog, sprint, dash, distance, streak.
What can I say instead of "run"?
Try one of these alternatives: jog, sprint, dash, distance, streak. Pick the synonym whose register and meaning fits your sentence — see the cards above for definitions and examples.
Is "run" formal or informal?
"run" is generally used in neutral contexts.
When should I use "run" instead of "jog"?
Use "run" when you want to keep the exact nuance shown in the meaning section above; switch to "jog" when you need a different register, level, or shade of meaning. Compare the cards above to decide.
What are the antonyms of "run"?
Words with the opposite meaning of "run" include: walk, stop, shut down, abandon, neglect.