Running behind

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Running behind" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that someone is late or delayed in completing a task or arriving at a location. Example: "I'm running behind schedule, so I might be late to the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Running behind the fullback is still Steven Jackson.

The New York Times

Running behind, running late for lunch.

BMC Medical Education

— when you're already running behind: 7.3.

The New Yorker

The event was running behind schedule.

The New York Times

The dog is running behind her.

The Guardian - Books

He is not running behind her there.

The New York Times

1.10pm: The conference is running behind schedule.

The Guardian

There were five other rabbits running behind it.

The New Yorker

The festival is running behind schedule and lacks coherence.

The Economist

That means he is running behind his last performance.

The New York Times

"An old man was running behind me," Mr. Sidibey says.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "Running behind" in a sentence, ensure that the context clearly indicates what is being delayed. Be specific about the task, schedule, or person that is not keeping pace.

Common error

Avoid using "Running behind" without specifying what is being delayed. For example, instead of saying "The project is running behind", clarify with "The project is running behind schedule due to unforeseen complications".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Running behind" functions as a predicate adjective phrase, often modifying a subject to indicate a state of delay or being behind schedule. Ludwig AI examples illustrate it describing projects, people, or progress that is not on time.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

21%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "Running behind" is a versatile expression used to indicate delays or a failure to keep pace. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and appears frequently in diverse contexts, most notably in news, scientific, and business domains. Common usages include describing projects behind schedule or individuals struggling to meet deadlines. When employing this phrase, clarity is crucial; specify what is being delayed. Alternatives like ""falling behind"" or ""lagging behind"" offer similar meanings, allowing for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Falling behind

Suggests a decline or failure to keep pace with a standard or expectation.

Lagging behind

Implies a slower pace compared to others, particularly in progress or development.

Behind schedule

Specifically refers to a delay in meeting deadlines or timelines.

Trailing

Indicates a position at the rear, often in a race or competition.

In arrears

Signifies being late in fulfilling obligations, such as payments.

Playing catch-up

Describes the act of trying to reach the same level as others after a period of lagging.

Losing ground

Suggests a decrease in advantage or position relative to competitors.

Slipping

Indicates a gradual decline in performance or adherence to standards.

Off pace

Implies a failure to maintain the necessary speed or rate.

Outstripped

Describes a situation where someone or something has surpassed or exceeded expectations.

FAQs

How can I use "Running behind" in a sentence?

You can use "Running behind" to indicate a delay in schedule, progress, or performance. For example, "I'm running behind on my deadlines" or "The construction project is running behind schedule".

What phrases are similar to "Running behind"?

Similar phrases include "falling behind", "lagging behind", or "behind schedule". The best choice depends on the specific context of your sentence.

Is it correct to say "running behind on" something?

Yes, it is grammatically correct and commonly used to say "running behind on" something, especially when referring to tasks, deadlines, or obligations. For example, "I'm running behind on my payments".

What is the difference between "running behind" and ""falling behind""?

"Running behind" typically indicates a temporary delay or being slightly late, while ""falling behind"" suggests a more significant and potentially persistent failure to keep pace or meet expectations.