not running smoothly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not running smoothly" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe a situation or process that is experiencing difficulties or issues. For example, "The project is not running smoothly due to unforeseen complications." Alternative expressions include "not functioning well," "not operating efficiently," and "not proceeding seamlessly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

The report said implementation of the Homelessness Act 2002 was "not running smoothly" and more guidance was needed for councils.

The Guardian

It's been a weird mixture of big egos and excessive partying (Leo season) paired with weird and unexpected upheavals in our emotional world (eclipses), alongside shit just not running smoothly (retrogrades).

Vice

[033, physician] [The administration] is not running smoothly… You can find the money, but some materials are bought but kept in the stores, or they are not bought in a timely way.

Globalization and Health

[The administration] is not running smoothly… You can find the money, but some materials are bought but kept in the stores, or they are not bought in a timely way.

Globalization and Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

The process has not run smoothly.

The New York Times

Things did not run smoothly.

The New York Times - Magazine

Inevitably, things did not run smoothly.

The Guardian - Sport

His education did not run smoothly.

The Guardian - Arts

She became his mistress, but their relationship did not run smoothly.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Iverson, Vernon Maxwell, Pepe Sanchez and Aaron McKie have all had to pitch in, and the offense has not run smoothly.

The New York Times - Sports

But the second set did not run smoothly for their hero.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a process or project, use "not running smoothly" to clearly indicate that there are issues affecting its progress or efficiency. Be specific about the nature of the problems for better clarity.

Common error

Avoid vague statements about things "not running smoothly" without identifying the actor or cause. Instead of saying "the project is not running smoothly", specify "the project is not running smoothly because of budget constraints".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not running smoothly" functions as a predicate adjective, describing the state or condition of a subject. As confirmed by Ludwig, it indicates that something is experiencing difficulties or inefficiencies. Examples show its usage in describing processes, projects, and relationships.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "not running smoothly" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to express that something is experiencing problems or difficulties. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is versatile enough to be used across different registers, though primarily found in news, scientific, and wiki contexts. When using this phrase, consider being specific about the reasons why things are not progressing as expected and avoid overuse of passive voice to maintain clarity. Alternatives like "experiencing hiccups" or "facing obstacles" may be more appropriate depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not proceeding as planned

This alternative focuses on the deviation from an intended course.

not flowing seamlessly

This alternative highlights a lack of smooth progression.

encountering difficulties

This alternative focuses on the experience of facing challenges.

facing obstacles

This alternative emphasizes the presence of impediments.

snagged with complications

This alternative is more precise in indicating the presence of a knot or a problem that prevent the progress.

experiencing hiccups

This alternative suggests minor, temporary disruptions.

fraught with challenges

This alternative suggests a situation filled with potential difficulties.

beset with problems

This alternative highlights a situation surrounded by issues.

off to a rocky start

This alternative emphasizes initial troubles.

going through a rough patch

This alternative indicates a temporary period of difficulty.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "not running smoothly" to sound more formal?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "not proceeding as planned" or "encountering difficulties" instead of "not running smoothly".

What does it mean when someone says something is "not running smoothly"?

It means that a process, project, or situation is experiencing problems, delays, or inefficiencies. It indicates that things are not progressing as expected or desired.

Is it grammatically correct to say "not running smoothly"?

Yes, "not running smoothly" is grammatically correct and commonly used in both spoken and written English.

What are some common synonyms for "not running smoothly"?

Some common synonyms include "experiencing hiccups", "facing obstacles", and "beset with problems".