run a competition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "run a competition" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to organizing or conducting a contest or competition, typically in a formal or professional context. Example: "Our company plans to run a competition to encourage innovative ideas from our employees."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

ACCA, the certified accountants' body, has run a competition for environmental reporting since the early 1990s.

The Guardian - Business

And the carmaker Volvo has already run a competition to give its lucky winner a ride into space.

The Economist

We won't run a competition today, though you're welcome, as ever, to share your tips with us below.

The Guardian - Sport

Could we not run a competition, Ravenhill asked, inviting aspiring film-makers to submit new work to us via YouTube?

The Guardian - Film

Still, reassuring to see the BBC can still run a competition after those unfortunate troubles on Blue Peter.

The Guardian

Q: I would like to run a competition for your readers, please let me know to whom I should send details.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

Next week we will be running a competition - with a difference.

The Guardian - Sport

Chatterbooks is currently running a competition for schools.

The Guardian

Chicago runs a competition called the New Venture Challenge, which has raised $300m for start-ups.

The Economist

The English publication "Time & Tide" runs a competition from time to time.

The New Yorker

And we're running a competition too to visualise the best.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When planning a competition, clearly define the rules, judging criteria, and prizes to ensure fairness and attract a diverse range of participants. Use the phrase "run a competition" to convey that you are actively organizing and managing the event.

Common error

Avoid launching a competition without thoroughly considering logistical details and potential challenges. Incomplete planning can lead to participant dissatisfaction and a tarnished reputation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "run a competition" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of organizing and managing a contest. Ludwig shows various examples where this phrase is used to describe the act of conducting a competitive event.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

20%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Science

8%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "run a competition" is a commonly used verb phrase that describes the act of organizing and managing a contest. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various contexts, including news, business, and general discussions. The phrase is generally neutral in register and serves to inform audiences about the execution of competitive events. While "run a competition" is widely accepted, alternatives such as "organize a competition" or "hold a contest" can provide subtle variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hold a contest

Focuses on the act of hosting or presenting a contest, differing slightly in emphasis from managing all aspects.

organize a competition

Highlights the structured planning and arrangement involved, providing a more formal tone.

stage a contest

Emphasizes the presentation and performance aspect of the competition.

launch a competition

Focuses on the initiation or starting point of the competitive event.

conduct a contest

Implies a formal and methodical execution of the contest.

sponsor a competition

Indicates providing support and resources for the competition, rather than direct management.

oversee a contest

Highlights the supervisory role in managing the competition.

administer a competition

Focuses on the bureaucratic and procedural aspects of managing the contest.

coordinate a competition

Implies bringing together different elements to ensure a smooth and organized event.

put on a competition

Suggests a more informal and hands-on approach to organizing the contest.

FAQs

What does it mean to "run a competition"?

To "run a competition" means to organize, manage, and oversee all aspects of a contest or competitive event, from planning and promotion to judging and awarding prizes.

What are some alternatives to "run a competition"?

You can use alternatives such as "hold a contest", "organize a competition", or "stage a contest" depending on the specific context.

How do you use "run a competition" in a sentence?

You might say, "The marketing team decided to "run a competition" to increase brand awareness" or "The school will "run a competition" to encourage students to improve their writing skills".

Is it better to say "run a competition" or "host a competition"?

Both "run a competition" and "host a competition" are acceptable. "Run a competition" implies a more comprehensive management role, while "host a competition" emphasizes the act of presenting or providing the venue for the event. The choice depends on the specific emphasis you want to convey.