I previously ran

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I previously ran" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a past action of running, often in the context of discussing experiences or activities you have done before. Example: "I previously ran a marathon, which was one of the most challenging experiences of my life."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"I previously ran the first 100% gluten free restaurant in Prague, which was all about cooking delicious food that just so happened to be gluten-free rather than taking dishes and adapting them.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

As I reported in November, his place is being taken by Sebastian Shakespeare, who previously ran the Londoner's Diary in the London Evening Standard.

The Guardian

"I can't follow so many numbers," said Lyn Blake, a vice president who previously ran Amazon's book department and now oversees company relations with manufacturers.

The New York Times

"I saw computer recycling as the next big wave," said Mr. Feinstein, 37, who previously ran a paper-shredding business with his father, Bob.

The New York Times

Mr. Lee previously ran Gucci and Yves Saint Laurent.

The New York Times

She previously ran Wimbledon High school.

The Guardian

Lewieke previously ran the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Denver Nuggets.

The New York Times - Sports

Ms. Thammasat previously ran a grocery down the street.

The New York Times - Food

It previously ran this disclaimer, which has since been removed.

Independent

"Martha Bakes" previously ran for two seasons on the Hallmark Channel.

The New York Times

Kasten previously ran the N.H.L.'s Atlanta Thrashers.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "I previously ran", clearly state what you ran (e.g., a company, a project, a department) to provide context and make your statement more impactful.

Common error

Avoid simply stating "I previously ran" without specifying what you managed or its relevance. Highlight key achievements or lessons learned to demonstrate your capabilities effectively.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I previously ran" functions as a declarative statement indicating a past activity or role. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct. It introduces prior experience, as shown in examples where individuals discuss their past management roles.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I previously ran" is a grammatically sound and acceptable way to describe a past role or activity. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. While not extremely common, it is primarily found in News & Media contexts and serves to convey experience and qualifications. When using this phrase, it's best to specify the entity or activity that was managed to provide clarity and impact. Consider alternatives such as "I formerly managed" or "I used to oversee" depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I had previously managed

Replaces "ran" with "managed", focusing on prior management experience.

I formerly oversaw

Substitutes "previously ran" with "formerly oversaw", emphasizing oversight responsibilities.

I once directed

Uses "once directed" instead of "previously ran", highlighting a past directorial role.

I used to operate

Replaces "previously ran" with "used to operate", focusing on operational activities.

I have in the past supervised

Changes "previously ran" to "have in the past supervised", emphasizing a past supervisory role.

Earlier, I was in charge of

Replaces "previously ran" with "earlier, I was in charge of", focusing on past responsibilities.

In the past, I controlled

Uses "in the past, I controlled" instead of "previously ran", emphasizing control over something.

I have experience leading

Changes "previously ran" to "have experience leading", highlighting leadership experience.

Before, I headed

Replaces "previously ran" with "before, I headed", focusing on a past leadership position.

I oversaw in the past

Expressing past experience in an alternative sentence structure.

FAQs

How can I use "I previously ran" in a sentence?

You can use "I previously ran" to introduce your past experiences and roles, such as "I previously ran a marketing campaign that increased sales by 20%" or "I previously ran a successful startup in the tech industry".

What are some alternatives to saying "I previously ran"?

Alternatives include "I formerly managed", "I used to oversee", or "I have in the past directed", depending on the specific context and role you're describing.

What's the difference between "I previously ran" and "I used to run"?

"I previously ran" often implies a more formal or significant role, such as managing a business or project. "I used to run" can refer to a past habit or activity, like jogging or running errands.

Is it correct to say "I previously run" instead of "I previously ran"?

No, "I previously run" is grammatically incorrect. The correct form is "I previously ran", as "ran" is the past tense of "run". Using "run" in this context would be a grammatical error.