ran like clockwork

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ran like clockwork" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a process or event that operates smoothly and efficiently without any problems. Example: "The event was meticulously planned, and everything ran like clockwork from start to finish."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

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

The New Yorker

Backstage ran like clockwork, and they literally gave them four straight hours of Korean pop — it didn't skip a beat.

The New Yorker

For small children, Murray's Trumptonshire suggested that Britain ran like clockwork and that adult life was an orderly, measured affair.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

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

The Guardian - Travel

Finally he exclaimed, "I think I see the speaker's bus!" There has probably never been a presidential campaign that ran like clockwork.

The New York Times

Mark Cuban says, "you would think that the candidate with the most business experience would be best prepared to build a national organization that ran like clockwork and made the final difference in the election.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

It runs like clockwork.

The New York Times

My PC began to run like clockwork.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

My code was running like clockwork.

The New York Times - Health

The logic is fuzzy but it runs like clockwork.

Independent

"The test is running like clockwork," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid using "ran like clockwork" when describing living beings, as the idiom implies a mechanical, rather than organic, operation.

Common error

Don't use "ran like clockwork" to describe something that is simply fast, but not necessarily well-organized. The phrase emphasizes efficiency and precision, not just speed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ran like clockwork" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe how an action was performed. It indicates that something happened with precision, efficiency, and without any issues. Ludwig confirms its idiomatic usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "ran like clockwork" is an idiomatic expression used to describe something that operates smoothly, efficiently, and predictably. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. While suitable for various contexts, its prevalence is highest in news and media. When considering alternative phrases, options like "operated seamlessly" or "functioned smoothly" may offer similar meanings with slightly different nuances. Be mindful of the connotation: the phrase emphasizes efficiency and precision, not just speed. Use this phrase when you want to communicate the flawless and organized nature of an event or process.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

operated seamlessly

Focuses on the absence of disruption or friction during operation.

functioned smoothly

Emphasizes the ease and lack of difficulty in the process.

proceeded without a hitch

Highlights the absence of unexpected problems or delays.

worked like a charm

Suggests that something was particularly effective and successful.

went off without a snag

Similar to "without a hitch", but slightly more informal.

operated efficiently

Highlights the effectiveness and productivity of the operation.

followed a perfect plan

Underlines the well-designed aspect of the plan execution.

moved like a well-oiled machine

Emphasizes the smooth and effortless movement of the entire system.

progressed according to schedule

Focuses on timelines and meeting deadlines.

turned out swimmingly

Indicates an extremely positive and successful outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "ran like clockwork" in a sentence?

Use "ran like clockwork" to describe a process or event that operated smoothly and efficiently. For example, "The project was meticulously planned, and everything "ran like clockwork" from start to finish".

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

When something "runs like clockwork", it means that it operates smoothly, efficiently, and predictably, without any problems or disruptions.

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

You can use alternatives like "operated seamlessly", "functioned smoothly", or "went off without a hitch", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "ran like clockwork" in formal writing?

Yes, "ran like clockwork" is suitable for formal writing, especially when describing business operations or project management, but alternatives might be preferrable depending on register. However, consider "operated seamlessly" for a more formal option.