Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
cannot run properly
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "cannot run properly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where something, such as a program or system, is not functioning as intended. Example: "The software update was supposed to improve performance, but now it cannot run properly."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Wiki
Science
Alternative expressions(3)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
1 human-written examples
He said: "With this blocking of our accounts, we cannot run properly, we can't do anything, pay any outstanding cheques or make any financial transactions.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
59 human-written examples
Mr Milburn now says that the health service cannot be run properly from Whitehall.
News & Media
The reason is I basically cannot function properly, speak well or make sound decisions.
News & Media
Run properly the branch could be a gem.
News & Media
"The scheme was not run properly, it wasn't managed properly, there were severe systemic failings.
News & Media
Learn how to run properly.
Wiki
Vehicle may not run properly.
Wiki
Make sure you run properly and lift small weights.
Wiki
The watch will continue to run properly during this time.
Wiki
The air conditioner won't run properly unless your engine is running.
Wiki
He succeeded to fix my leg, although not properly, because I still feel the pain and I cannot run or walk for a long distance".
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When describing technical issues, use "cannot run properly" to convey that a program or system is not functioning as designed. Be specific about the nature of the problem following the phrase for clarity.
Common error
Avoid using "cannot run properly" as a vague statement without detailing the specific issues. Always provide context or further explanation to clarify what aspect of the running process is failing or suboptimal.
Source & Trust
78%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "cannot run properly" typically functions as a descriptive statement indicating that a process, system, or application is not operating as intended. It describes a state of impaired functionality. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and suitable for use in written English.
Frequent in
News & Media
30%
Wiki
30%
Science
20%
Less common in
Formal & Business
10%
Academia
5%
Reference
5%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "cannot run properly" is a grammatically correct way to express that something isn't functioning as intended. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for use in written English. While not extremely common, it appears in a variety of contexts, including News & Media, Wiki and Science. When using the phrase, it's best to provide specific details about the malfunction. Alternatives include phrases such as "is not functioning correctly" or "is unable to operate effectively". Understanding its function, purpose, and register can help you use "cannot run properly" with precision and clarity.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
is not functioning correctly
Replaces "run" with "functioning", focusing on the overall operation rather than the specific act of running.
is unable to operate effectively
Emphasizes the inability to perform effectively, highlighting a lack of efficiency.
cannot function as intended
Highlights the deviation from the intended or designed functionality.
is not working correctly
A simpler and more general way to express malfunction or improper operation.
cannot be executed correctly
Focuses on the execution aspect, implying a failure in the process of running or performing.
is malfunctioning
A single-word alternative suggesting a fault in the system's operation.
cannot perform optimally
Highlights a failure to reach the best possible level of performance.
is not operating as expected
Emphasizes that the operation differs from what was anticipated.
cannot proceed correctly
Focuses on the inability to advance or continue in the correct manner.
is running with errors
Indicates that, although running, the process is flawed and producing errors.
FAQs
How can I use "cannot run properly" in a sentence?
You can use "cannot run properly" to describe a program, system, or process that is not functioning as intended. For example, "The new software update was installed, but now the application "cannot run properly"".
What's a more formal way to say "cannot run properly"?
In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "is not functioning correctly" or "is unable to operate effectively" as alternatives to ""cannot run properly"".
Is "cannot run properly" grammatically correct?
Yes, ""cannot run properly"" is grammatically correct and commonly used to describe something that is not functioning as intended.
What does it mean when something "cannot run properly"?
When something ""cannot run properly"", it means that it is not operating or functioning as it should, often due to errors, bugs, or other issues that impede its performance.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
78%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested