everything ran like clockwork

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "everything ran like clockwork" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where everything went smoothly and according to plan, without any problems or delays. Example: "The event was a huge success; everything ran like clockwork from start to finish."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Everything ran like clockwork and you could guarantee everything would be on time.

The Guardian

I would like to say it was planned to the nth degree and that everything ran like clockwork.

The Guardian - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

The firm but fair butler always makes everything run like clockwork for the Granthams.

Independent

It's unlike anywhere else I have visited - the streets are perfectly designed to ensure pedestrians, buses, cars and bicycles are all considered equally, and everything runs like clockwork.

The Guardian - Travel

"You need to make sure you get your detail nailed on before you go out and you know what lines you are running, you need to know where you are supposed to be, so as soon as you are in the pitch you know exactly what is happening and everything runs like clockwork".

BBC

Thus, the illusion that a leader is non-human must be maintained, particularly in a technocratic society where everything running like clockwork, as a machine, is the fantasy.

Vice

Girls' Generation also ran like clockwork in front of the camera".

The New Yorker

See more photos of move-in: Daniel Creasy from Admissions has posted a photo gallery showing how it all ran like clockwork.

Johns Hopkins University

Our lives ran like clockwork, you see.

Huffington Post

Apart from Switzerland it ran like clockwork, which was exactly the plan.

Huffington Post

This was the morning when everything had to run like clockwork, no mistakes, everyone on his game.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "everything ran like clockwork" to convey efficiency and precision, particularly when describing well-planned events or processes.

Common error

While effective, the phrase can sound cliché if overused. Consider alternatives like "everything proceeded smoothly" or "it all went according to plan" for variety.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "everything ran like clockwork" functions as an idiomatic expression, conveying that a process or event occurred smoothly and efficiently, without any issues. Ludwig confirms its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The idiom "everything ran like clockwork" effectively communicates that an event or process occurred flawlessly and efficiently. Ludwig indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and, while not overly frequent, is readily understood in diverse contexts. While authoritative sources like The Guardian and BBC use the phrase, it's useful to be aware of the possibility of overuse; in those cases it's important to consider alternatives for increased clarity. To summarize, the expression is most commonly found in the news and media, serving to underscore the successful execution of a plan or event.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

everything went off without a hitch

This alternative focuses on the absence of problems or interruptions during the event.

everything proceeded smoothly

This emphasizes the lack of difficulties or obstacles in the process.

everything went according to plan

This highlights that the event followed the predetermined course of action.

everything functioned flawlessly

This stresses the absence of errors or malfunctions.

everything operated seamlessly

This emphasizes the smooth and continuous operation of the event.

everything was well-organized

This alternative focuses more on the preparation aspect that results in a smooth experience.

everything was efficiently executed

Highlights the efficiency in performing the event.

the operation was a success

This focuses on the positive outcome and completion of the event.

the event was well-managed

Similar to well-organized but with emphasis on direction and control.

it all came together perfectly

Emphasizes the successful combination of elements leading to the event's smooth execution.

FAQs

What does "everything ran like clockwork" mean?

It means that everything happened according to plan, smoothly and efficiently, without any problems or delays.

What can I say instead of "everything ran like clockwork"?

You can use alternatives such as "everything went smoothly", "everything went according to plan", or "everything went off without a hitch".

In what situations is it appropriate to use "everything ran like clockwork"?

It's suitable for describing events, processes, or operations that were well-organized and executed without issues. It conveys a sense of precision and efficiency.

Is "everything ran like clockwork" a formal or informal expression?

It is considered a neutral expression, suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although it leans slightly towards informality due to its idiomatic nature. Consider the formality of your audience.