it runs like clockwork

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it runs like clockwork" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a process or system that operates smoothly and efficiently without any problems. Example: "The event was perfectly organized; everything ran like clockwork from start to finish."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Travel

Entertainment

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

It runs like clockwork.

The New York Times

The logic is fuzzy but it runs like clockwork.

Independent

Everything is perfectly calculated, and it runs like clockwork.

The New Yorker

Paradoxically, it only works when it runs like clockwork: everything has to go right for everything to go so wrong.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

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

Huffington Post

As Jasmine puts it: "It was running like clockwork for 20 years.

The Guardian - Opinion

It almost sounds like the solar system runs like clockwork right?

BBC

"Foreigners think Switzerland is a place that runs like clockwork, but we know it hasn't been that way for at least 10 years".

The New York Times

"Foreigners think Switzerland is a place that runs like clockwork, but we know it hasn't been that way for at least 10 years," said René Sutter, 49, who rents pedal boats on Zurich's lake.

The New York Times

They'll be in it for the plot, which is big, engrossing, and runs like clockwork.

The Guardian - Books

The book has a righteous social message, about responsibility for others, and a great big plot that runs like clockwork; like the Potter novels, it is efficiently organised beneath its busy surface.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it runs like clockwork" to describe processes, events, or systems that are meticulously planned and executed without issues. It implies reliability and precision.

Common error

Avoid using "it runs like clockwork" when the situation involves spontaneity or unexpected changes. The phrase is most appropriate for scenarios where predictability and precision are key.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it runs like clockwork" functions as an idiomatic expression used to describe a process, system, or event that operates smoothly and efficiently. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a usable expression in English. Ludwig's examples showcase its application in various contexts, from movie production to organizational efficiency.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

25%

Travel

15%

Less common in

Science

5%

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it runs like clockwork" is an idiomatic expression used to describe something operating smoothly and efficiently. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides examples across diverse contexts such as news, business, and travel. While versatile, it is best suited for situations emphasizing predictability and precision, and Ludwig's examples suggest that less formal alternatives exist for scenarios that require a higher level of formality, like ""it is highly efficient"".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it operates seamlessly

Focuses on the lack of interruption or difficulty in the operation.

it functions flawlessly

Emphasizes the absence of errors or defects in its operation.

it works like a charm

Suggests a pleasing and effortless effectiveness, often implying a simple solution.

it goes off without a hitch

Highlights the absence of any unexpected problems or delays.

it is well-oiled

Conveys the idea of smooth, efficient operation due to careful preparation and maintenance.

it is highly efficient

Directly emphasizes the effective use of resources, like time or energy.

it is perfectly synchronized

Highlights the precise coordination of elements in the operation.

it is systematized

Suggests that the operation follows a structured and organized system.

it is streamlined

Implies that the process has been optimized for maximum efficiency and simplicity.

it is finely tuned

Emphasizes the precise adjustment and optimization of the operation for best performance.

FAQs

What does it mean when something "runs like clockwork"?

When something "runs like clockwork", it means it operates smoothly, efficiently, and without any problems. It implies a high degree of precision and reliability.

What can I say instead of "it runs like clockwork"?

You can use alternatives like "it operates seamlessly", "it functions flawlessly", or "it works like a charm" depending on the context.

Is it okay to use "it runs like clockwork" in formal writing?

While "it runs like clockwork" is widely understood, it might be more suitable for informal or neutral contexts. In formal writing, consider alternatives like "it is highly efficient" or "it is well-oiled" to maintain a professional tone.

How do I use "it runs like clockwork" in a sentence?

You can use "it runs like clockwork" to describe a system, process, or event that is well-organized and operates without any issues. For example: "The event was perfectly organized; "it ran like clockwork" from start to finish."