run downstairs

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "run downstairs" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing the action of moving quickly down a flight of stairs, typically in a home or building setting. Example: "Hearing the doorbell ring, she decided to run downstairs to greet her guests."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

"Run downstairs.

The New Yorker

Again, they would run downstairs, but find no one.

Britannica

You want me to run downstairs and get the number?

The New York Times - Tech

"Run downstairs!" I shouted, and they dashed down the stairwell.

The New Yorker

I run downstairs and see Ficre slumped on the floor, the treadmill still running.

The New Yorker

"If you hear a siren," I said, "slide your feet into your shoes and run downstairs".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

I ran downstairs.

The New Yorker

She's running downstairs.

The New Yorker

I grabbed her, and we ran downstairs".

The New York Times

"I hear someone running downstairs," he said.

The New York Times

I ran downstairs to the male mannequins.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "run downstairs" when you want to convey a sense of urgency or speed in moving from an upper level to a lower level in a building or house. It is particularly effective in narrative writing to create a vivid image of someone moving quickly.

Common error

While "run downstairs" is perfectly acceptable in many contexts, avoid using it excessively in formal or professional writing. Opt for more neutral alternatives like "descend the stairs quickly" or "go downstairs promptly" to maintain a more professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "run downstairs" functions as a verb phrase, specifically indicating an action of moving quickly down a staircase. Ludwig examples showcase its use in narrative contexts to describe a character's movement within a building. Ludwig AI states that the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "run downstairs" is a grammatically correct and usable verb phrase that describes the action of moving quickly down a staircase. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While examples show it is most frequently used in News & Media contexts, suggesting a neutral register, it is suitable for conveying urgency or rapid movement in narratives. For more formal contexts, consider alternatives such as "descend rapidly". It's important to be mindful of the specific context to use the most appropriate phrasing, as this will greatly enhance the clarity and impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hurry downstairs

Emphasizes speed and urgency in going downstairs.

rush downstairs

Similar to hurry, but may imply a sense of panic or strong motivation.

dash downstairs

Suggests a quick, light movement downstairs.

scurry downstairs

Implies quick, hurried movements, often due to fear or excitement.

sprint downstairs

Emphasizes the act of running at full speed downstairs.

bolt downstairs

Implies a sudden and rapid movement, as if escaping something.

race downstairs

Suggests a competitive or playful movement, as if in a race.

descend quickly

A more formal way of saying "run downstairs", focusing on the act of descending.

hasten downstairs

A more formal and less common way to express quick descent.

go down quickly

A general phrase emphasizing speed in going downstairs, lacking the urgency of "run".

FAQs

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

You can use "run downstairs" to describe someone moving quickly from an upper level to a lower level. For example, "Hearing the doorbell, she decided to "run downstairs" to greet her guests."

What are some alternatives to "run downstairs"?

You can use alternatives like "hurry downstairs", "rush downstairs", or "dash downstairs" depending on the context.

Is it more formal to say "descend the stairs quickly" instead of "run downstairs"?

Yes, "descend the stairs quickly" is more formal. "Run downstairs" is suitable for informal contexts, while "descend the stairs quickly" is better for formal writing.

When should I use "run down" instead of "run downstairs"?

"Run down" is a more general term that can refer to any downward movement, not specifically stairs. Use ""run downstairs"" when the movement is specifically down a flight of stairs.