could not run

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "could not run" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate an inability to perform the action of running, whether literally or metaphorically. Example: "After the injury, she realized she could not run for several weeks."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

They could not run countries.

The Economist

Women could not run with men.

The New York Times - Sports

"They could not run away.

The Guardian

Her ailing mother could not run anymore.

The New York Times

One 22-year-old man could not run fast enough.

The New York Times

Fudge Cake was leashed, so he could not run away.

The New York Times

They could not run the football against us.

The New York Times - Sports

Then, he twisted his ankle and could not run.

The New York Times - Sports

All they find are those few civilians who did not or could not run away.

The Economist

The military marched into villages, torturing, raping and killing those who could not run away.

The New York Times

Nunes could not run like Luck, or Hogan, for that matter.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "could not run" in your writing, ensure that the context clearly indicates whether you're referring to a physical inability or a metaphorical one. For instance, differentiate between "He could not run due to his injury" and "The company could not run efficiently due to poor management."

Common error

Avoid using "could not run" in situations where a more precise verb would better convey your intended meaning. For example, instead of saying "The program could not run", consider alternatives like "The program failed to execute" or "The program crashed" for better clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "could not run" primarily functions as a verbal phrase expressing an inability to perform the action of running. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is correct and can be used literally or metaphorically. Examples show its use in describing physical limitations or operational failures.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Wiki

12%

Science

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "could not run" is a versatile verbal phrase used to express an inability or impossibility to perform the act of running, both literally and metaphorically. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used in various contexts, particularly in news and media. While its formality is generally neutral, the context often determines the specific nuance. When crafting your writing, ensure the intended meaning—physical inability or operational failure—is clear to the audience. Consider alternatives like "was unable to run" or "lacked the ability to run" for subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

was unable to run

Replaces the contraction 'could not' with the more formal 'was unable', maintaining the core meaning.

couldn't run

Uses a contraction, making it less formal than "could not run".

lacked the ability to run

Emphasizes the absence of the physical or metaphorical ability to run.

was incapable of running

Highlights the complete lack of capacity to perform the action.

did not have the strength to run

Focuses on physical strength as the reason for being unable to run.

was in no condition to run

Highlights the state of being unfit or unsuitable for running.

found it impossible to run

Emphasizes the impossibility of performing the action.

was prevented from running

Suggests an external force or circumstance hindered the ability to run.

had no chance to run

Focuses on the lack of opportunity or circumstance allowing to run.

was not fast enough to run

Specifically addresses the lack of speed as the inhibiting factor.

FAQs

How can I use "could not run" in a sentence?

The phrase "could not run" indicates an inability to perform the action of running. Examples include: "After the injury, she "could not run" for several weeks" or "The business "could not run" efficiently due to lack of resources".

What are some alternatives to "could not run"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "was unable to run", "lacked the ability to run", or "was incapable of running".

Is it better to say "could not run" or "couldn't run"?

"Could not run" and "couldn't run" are both grammatically correct. "Could not run" is more formal, while "couldn't run" is a contraction and is suitable for informal contexts.

When is it appropriate to use "could not run" metaphorically?

You can use "could not run" metaphorically to indicate that something is not functioning or operating as intended. For example, "The project "could not run" smoothly due to budget constraints".