designated runner

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "designated runner" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts such as sports, events, or any situation where a specific person is assigned the role of running or delivering something. Example: "In the relay race, each team must have a designated runner to complete their leg of the race."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

He wanted his designated runner".

The New York Times - Sports

When this occurs, Ms. Simon, who takes her coffee so light it is hard to tell there is coffee in there at all, shouts, "Go get my black coffee!" Felix, usually the designated "runner" in case a thief flees, moves toward the front door and keeps an eye on the customer.

The New York Times

The Royals dropped outfielder Terrance Gore, who sparkled as their designated runner last October.

Los Angeles Times

If nothing else, the Bat Rays plan to use him as a designated runner.

Los Angeles Times

Although that performance helped encourage the Dodgers to open a "speed camp" in search of their own postseason designated runner, Gore had stolen just one base in the Royals' 11 postseason games this October.

Los Angeles Times

Mondesi took the roster spot of Terrance Gore, who was the Royals' celebrated designated runner last October but had appeared in only two games and stolen one base in their 11 postseason games this year.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

By then, Finley was long past his days of mechanical rabbits and designated runners and his eponymous mule mascot.

The New York Times - Sports

Steinbrenner makes his preferences known to the manager, but Torre makes out the lineup and the owner hasn't proposed any gimmicks, like roving infielders and designated runners.

The New York Times - Sports

The team also was designated runner-up in the Best Experimental Measurement category and received an honorable mention in the New Application category.

Johns Hopkins University

This year's team also was designated runner-up in the Best Experimental Measurement category and received an honorable mention in the New Application category.

Johns Hopkins University

But baseball itself is sound; no one is calling for orange balls or designated runners.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using alternatives like "appointed runner" or "assigned runner" when seeking to add more formal tone to the writing. Be aware of which option fits best.

Common error

Avoid using "designated runner" in contexts where the runner's role is not clearly defined or officially assigned. This phrase implies a specific appointment, not just anyone who happens to be running.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "designated runner" functions primarily as a noun phrase, identifying a person who has been specifically assigned the task of running in place of another. As Ludwig AI suggests, this term is frequently seen in sports contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Science

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "designated runner" is a noun phrase used to describe someone specifically assigned to the task of running, often in place of another individual. While not overly common, its use is grammatically sound and finds application in sports, events, and other contexts where clear role definitions are important. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is usable in written English. While "appointed runner" or "assigned runner" can be considered as "designated runner" alternative options, "designated runner" itself is best used when emphasizing a formal assignment. The phrase appears most frequently in news and media, with some presence in academic contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

appointed runner

This phrase replaces "designated" with "appointed", suggesting a formal assignment to the running role.

assigned runner

Using "assigned" instead of "designated" emphasizes the act of being given the role of runner.

selected runner

This term focuses on the choice or selection process of the runner.

chosen runner

Similar to "selected runner", but may imply a more careful or deliberate choice.

primary runner

Indicates the main runner in a situation where multiple runners might be involved.

lead runner

Focuses on the runner who is in the front or leading a group.

relief runner

Implies a runner who replaces another, typically due to fatigue or injury.

backup runner

A runner held in reserve, ready to take over if needed.

alternate runner

Indicates a runner who can be used instead of the primary runner.

substitute runner

Similar to "relief runner", emphasizing the act of replacing another runner.

FAQs

What does "designated runner" mean in baseball?

In baseball, a "designated runner" refers to a player specifically chosen for their speed to replace another player on the bases, often in late-game situations to improve the team's chances of scoring.

When is it appropriate to use the term "designated runner"?

It's appropriate to use "designated runner" when referring to someone specifically chosen or assigned to run for a particular purpose, such as in sports or relay events. Contexts where speed or agility are prioritized.

Are there any synonyms for "designated runner"?

Yes, you can use synonyms like "appointed runner", "assigned runner", or "selected runner" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "designated runner" a formal or informal term?

"Designated runner" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though it's most common in settings where roles and responsibilities are clearly defined, such as in organized sports or official events.