run a business

USAGE SUMMARY

"run a business" is a correct phrase that can be used in written English.
For example, you could write, "John has always dreamed of running his own business."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"But I run a business.

The New York Times

You run a business the opposite way.

The Economist

You cannot run a business that way".

The New York Times - Sports

she's never run a business".

The New Yorker

We're trying to run a business here.

The New York Times - Sports

"Here's the problem: I run a business.

The Guardian - Film

We're learning how to run a business.

The New Yorker

"We must run a business," he said.

The New York Times

You know how you run a business.

The Guardian

But is that really any way to run a business?

The New York Times

"I run a business, and we work evenings and weekends.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and context when using "run a business". While generally appropriate, more formal settings might benefit from synonyms like "manage an enterprise".

Common error

Avoid using "run a business" as a generic statement without specifying the type, size, or industry of the business if relevant to your message. Be specific to provide clarity and avoid misleading your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "run a business" functions as a verb phrase, where "run" acts as the main verb, indicating the action of operating or managing a business. Ludwig AI validates this usage through numerous examples of the phrase in context.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "run a business" is a versatile and commonly used expression that describes the act of managing and operating a commercial enterprise. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and widely accepted across various contexts. It is primarily found in News & Media and Formal & Business domains. While the phrase maintains a neutral register, it's crucial to consider the specific context and audience when choosing to use it; formal scenarios might benefit from more precise alternatives. Overall, "run a business" is a robust phrase that should be part of any professional's vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be in charge of a business

Indicates responsibility and control over a business.

manage a company

Focuses on the management aspect of a business.

take care of business operations

Focuses on the caring for and maintaining a business.

operate a firm

Uses a more formal term for 'business'.

steer a company

Suggests guidance and direction of a company.

oversee operations

Emphasizes the supervisory role in business activities.

conduct business affairs

Highlights the formal and procedural aspects of business.

direct a venture

Highlights the leadership and guidance involved in a business undertaking.

administer an enterprise

Stresses the administrative and organizational duties.

handle commercial activities

Highlights the practical aspects of conducting business.

FAQs

How can I use "run a business" in a sentence?

You can use "run a business" to describe the act of managing and operating a company, as in "She has successfully "run a business" for over a decade".

What are some alternatives to saying "run a business"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "manage a company", "operate a firm", or "oversee operations".

Is it better to say "run a business" or "manage a business"?

Both "run a business" and "manage a business" are correct and widely used. "Run a business" often implies a more hands-on, operational approach, while "manage a business" can suggest a broader, more strategic oversight.

What does it mean to effectively "run a business"?

To effectively ""run a business"" means to successfully manage its operations, finances, and personnel to achieve its goals while maintaining ethical and legal standards.