I'm running late

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of the sentence "I'm running late" is correct and can be used in written English
It can be used to indicate that the speaker is behind schedule and will likely arrive or complete a task later than expected. Here is an example of how it could be used: "I apologize for the delay in submitting my report. I got caught up in a meeting and I'm running late."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

"Message from Casey Robin: 'I'm running late.

The New York Times

"I should go, I'm running late.

The New Yorker

Need to tell my next appointment I'm running late.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

What if it's actually nine minutes and I'm running late?

The Guardian

Then I'm running late, calling my mother to say I'm sorry, but I'm on my way.

The New York Times

"I'm running late, but I wanted to know if you have any shahtooshes".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

"I am running late.

The Guardian - Opinion

I was running late for a flight.

The New York Times

"I was running late," he said.

The New York Times

I told her I was running late (I actually was).

The New York Times

But I was running late, and my bags were being checked.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "I'm running late", provide a brief explanation for the delay if appropriate. For example, "I'm running late, the traffic is terrible today."

Common error

Avoid excessive apologies when saying "I'm running late". A simple acknowledgment and a reason are often sufficient, as over-apologizing can sometimes diminish the impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I'm running late" serves as a declarative statement. Its primary grammatical function is to inform the listener or reader about the speaker's current state of being behind schedule. Ludwig confirms the validity of the phrase, providing numerous examples of its usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I'm running late" is a grammatically sound and ubiquitous expression used to convey tardiness. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides ample evidence of its usage across diverse contexts, primarily in news and media. While it maintains a neutral formality, it's often accompanied by explanations or apologies. When employing this phrase, consider providing a reason for the delay and avoid excessive apologies. Alternatives such as "I'm behind schedule" or "I'm delayed" can be used for slight variations in emphasis or formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I'm going to be late

Focuses on the future consequence of the current situation.

I'm behind schedule

Emphasizes a deviation from the planned timeline.

I'm behind time

Similar to behind schedule, but can imply a general sense of tardiness.

I'm delayed

A more formal and neutral way of saying you are not on time.

I'm not on time

Directly states the lack of punctuality.

I'm held up

Indicates that something is preventing you from being on time.

I'm pushing it

Implies that you are cutting it close to the deadline.

I'm overdue

Suitable for situations where a deadline has passed.

I'm struggling to keep up

Focuses on the effort to stay on schedule.

I'm up against the clock

Emphasizes time pressure and a race against the clock.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "I'm running late"?

You can use alternatives like "I'm behind schedule", "I'm delayed", or "I'm going to be late" depending on the context.

How to use "I'm running late" in a sentence?

You can use "I'm running late" to inform someone that you will be arriving later than expected. For example, "I'm running late, I'll be there in 15 minutes".

Which is correct, "I'm running late" or "I'm getting late"?

"I'm running late" is the correct and more common way to express that you are behind schedule. "I'm getting late" is not standard English.

What's the difference between "I'm running late" and "I'll be late"?

"I'm running late" implies that you are already behind schedule, while "I'll be late" indicates a prediction or expectation of being late in the future. "I'm running late" focuses on the present situation whereas "I'll be late" focuses on the future.