a little run

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a little run" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a short or brief run, often in the context of exercise or a quick outing. Example: "I decided to go for a little run in the park to clear my mind before starting work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Travel

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

Hopefully, he'll get on a little run".

The New York Times - Sports

"We made a little run there".

The New York Times - Sports

But then the Tuckets seemed a little run down too.

The New Yorker

Charming, maybe a little run down, but so peaceful.

The Guardian - Books

It would have been fun to get on a little run here.

The New York Times - Sports

"I knew I was a little run down in the legislature.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

The place was also a little run-down.

The New York Times - Arts

They were a little run-down but attractive, with balconies and mansard roofs.

The New Yorker

"The building was a little run-down," said Dr. Soyer, who visited his grandparents often.

The New York Times

The surrounding neighbourhood, near the Central Market, is lively if a little run-down.

The Guardian - Travel

The Parco was a little run-down, but all the more realistic for it.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a little run" to describe a brief period of success or progress in various contexts, such as sports, business, or personal endeavors.

Common error

Avoid using "a little run" in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise and sophisticated language to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a little run" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It denotes a brief period of activity or success, as illustrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Sports

30%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Travel

5%

Formal & Business

2%

Science

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a little run" is a common and generally correct expression that can describe either a brief period of exercise or a short spell of success in various endeavors. According to Ludwig, the phrase is widely used in news and media, as well as sports contexts. While appropriate for neutral and informal registers, more formal or academic writing may benefit from more precise language. Remember to consider your audience and the specific context to ensure the most effective communication. Keep in mind other options like "a brief jog" or "a short sprint" when referring to exercise, and "a series of achievements" in more formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a brief jog

Focuses specifically on the act of jogging rather than just running.

a short sprint

Emphasizes a fast, short burst of running.

a quick dash

Implies a sudden and rapid movement.

a small burst

Highlights a short period of intense activity or effort.

a bit of exercise

General term for physical activity, less specific than running.

a spurt of speed

Focuses on increasing speed for a short duration.

a spell of activity

Describes a period of being active.

a short jaunt

Implies a light and carefree run or walk.

a brief outing

Refers to a short trip for pleasure or exercise.

a limited series of successes

Emphasizes a sequence of positive outcomes within a restricted scope.

FAQs

How can I use "a little run" in a sentence?

You can use "a little run" to describe a short period of exercise, as in "I'm going for a little run in the park". It can also mean a short period of success, as in "The team hopes to go on a little run during the playoffs".

What's another way to say "a little run" when referring to exercise?

When referring to exercise, you can use alternatives like "a brief jog", "a short sprint", or "a quick dash".

What does "a little run" mean in a sporting context?

In sports, "a little run" often refers to a series of successful plays or victories within a game or competition. For example, "The team needs to put together a little run to win the championship".

Is it appropriate to use "a little run" in formal writing?

While "a little run" is generally acceptable, it might be too informal for certain formal writing contexts. Consider using more precise and professional language, such as "a period of success" or "a series of achievements" depending on the context.