are running

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are running" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an ongoing action or state, typically in the present continuous tense. Example: "The children are running in the park, enjoying the sunny weather."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Emotions are running high.

The Economist

Batteries are running out.

The New York Times

You are running.

Independent

Expectations are running high.

The Economist

Students are running everywhere.

Independent

Services are running normally.

Independent

People are running away!

Independent

Passions are running high.

The Economist

"They are running for cover".

The New York Times

The dollars are running out.

The New York Times

They are running on rafters.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the operation of a system or organization, consider using "are running" to convey ongoing activity and management, for example, "These people are running the business now".

Common error

Avoid using "are running" when a more specific verb like "operating" or "functioning" would provide greater clarity. For instance, instead of saying "the program is running", specify "the program is executing" if you mean the code is currently being processed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are running" primarily functions as the present continuous tense of the verb 'to run'. It indicates an action that is currently in progress. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is both grammatically sound and widely applicable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Science

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "are running" is a very common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe actions in progress. As Ludwig AI indicates, it sees wide applicability across varied contexts, including news, wiki, and business settings. While versatile, it’s important to select the most precise verb to convey your intended meaning. Consider alternatives like "are operating" or "are functioning" for enhanced clarity. Understanding these nuances can significantly improve your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are operating

Focuses on the functional aspect, implying a system or process is in action.

are functioning

Similar to 'are operating', but emphasizes proper or intended operation.

are proceeding

Suggests a forward movement or progression in a process or activity.

are progressing

Emphasizes advancement or development over time.

are competing

Specifically refers to participation in a contest or race.

are campaigning

Implies active participation in a political campaign.

are flowing

Used when referring to liquids or abstract concepts that move like fluids.

are managing

Highlights the aspect of control and administration.

are extending

Focuses on the spatial or temporal reach of something.

are becoming

Indicates a change of state, often implying depletion or exhaustion.

FAQs

How can I use "are running" in a sentence?

You can use "are running" to describe an action in progress, like "The buses "are running"", or a state of being, like "Emotions "are running" high".

What can I say instead of "are running"?

You can use alternatives such as "are operating", "are functioning", or "are proceeding" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "are running" or "is running"?

"Are running" is used with plural subjects (e.g. "The buses are running"), while "is running" is used with singular subjects (e.g. "The bus is running").

What's the difference between "are running" and "will run"?

"Are running" describes an ongoing action in the present, while "will run" indicates an action that will occur in the future. For example, "The buses "are running" now", versus "The buses "will run" tomorrow".