able to run

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "able to run" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone's capability or capacity to perform the action of running, whether literally or metaphorically. Example: "After months of training, she is finally able to run a marathon."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Were they able to run the business?

The New York Times

Will I be able to run faster?

Columbia University

"If I'm able to run, anyway".

The New York Times - Sports

They weren't able to run the ball".

The New York Times - Sports

They're able to run the ball late.

The New York Times - Sports

mac and pc will be able to run this model.

Yale University

But it won't be able to run for cover forever.

Yale University

Ghana's Ayew and Gyan were often able to run free.

The New York Times - Sports

I had to be able to run the option.

The New York Times

The French are able to run such a service.

Independent

I was not able to run long distances.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone regaining the ability to run after an injury, use "able to run" to emphasize the recovery process. For example, "After physical therapy, she was finally able to run again."

Common error

Avoid using "able to run" when a simpler "can run" suffices. For example, instead of "He is able to run very fast", write "He can run very fast".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "able to run" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun or pronoun. It indicates the capacity or capability to perform the action of running. As Ludwig AI confirms, it describes someone's potential or competence in running.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Wiki

21%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Science

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "able to run" is a versatile and grammatically sound way to describe someone's capacity for running, as validated by Ludwig AI. While simpler alternatives like "can run" exist, "able to run" can be particularly useful for emphasizing recovery, training, or specific conditions affecting one's ability. It appears frequently in news, media, academic, and wiki sources, indicating broad applicability. Remember to choose the most concise phrasing when appropriate, but don't hesitate to use "able to run" when precision or emphasis is desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can run

A more concise way of expressing the capability to run.

capable of running

Emphasizes inherent ability or skill.

fit to run

Highlights physical condition or suitability for running.

in shape to run

Focuses on being physically prepared for running.

prepared to run

Stresses readiness or arrangement for running.

ready to run

Implies immediate availability or willingness to run.

in a condition to run

Highlights the state or circumstances allowing running.

has the ability to run

Explicitly states the possession of running ability.

allowed to run

Indicates permission or authorization to run.

permitted to run

Similar to allowed, but may imply a more formal allowance.

FAQs

What's a simpler way to say "able to run"?

The simplest alternative is "can run", which conveys the same meaning with fewer words.

How can I use "able to run" in a sentence about recovery?

You can say, "After weeks of physical therapy, he was finally "able to run" without pain".

Is there a difference between "able to run" and "capable of running"?

While similar, "capable of running" often implies an inherent or natural ability, whereas "able to run" can suggest a learned or regained skill.

When should I use "fit to run" instead of "able to run"?

Fit to run is best used when emphasizing physical condition or preparedness for running, implying the person is in good enough shape. For example, "The doctor confirmed that she was "fit to run" the marathon".