run on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "run on" is not grammatically correct.
"Run on" is slang that is used to describe a sentence that is too long and complex or that has a confusing structure. It is not typically used in formal, written English. For example, you might say: "The professor's lecture was so long and full of long-winded run on sentences that I couldn't even stay focused on it."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

"Gas devices run on electricity.

The New York Times

Radios can easily run on solar power.

The Economist

He allowed one run on five hits.

The New York Times - Sports

They run on.

The New Yorker

The run on Northern Rock?

The Economist

YouTube videos run on it.

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

This is a run-on.

The New York Times

His paragraphs are run-on.

The New York Times - Sports

Run-on sentences.

Huffington Post

Avoid run-on sentences.

WikiHow

Run-on sentences, comma splices.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "run on" to describe a sentence, ensure you're aware of the informal context. In formal writing, correct run-on sentences by separating them into multiple sentences or using appropriate punctuation.

Common error

Don't mistake a long sentence for a run-on sentence. A sentence can be lengthy and complex but still grammatically correct if it's properly punctuated and structured. A true "run-on sentence" connects independent clauses without correct punctuation or conjunctions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "run on" functions primarily as a phrasal verb, taking on different meanings depending on the context, such as continuing without interruption or operating using a specific power source. As Ludwig AI indicates, when referring to sentences, it refers to gramaticaly incorrect sentences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

23%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "run on" is a versatile phrasal verb with meanings ranging from continuous operation to grammatical errors. Ludwig AI points out that the term is often grammatically incorrect, particularly when describing sentences. Examining the examples from Ludwig, we see its prevalence across diverse fields like news, science, and general writing. While its grammatical correctness is debatable, its widespread usage makes it essential to understand its various contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

continue without stopping

Emphasizes uninterrupted continuation, altering the verb and removing the preposition.

operate using

Focuses on the means of operation, replacing "run" with "operate" and adding "using" for clarity.

be powered by

Highlights the power source, changing the active voice to passive.

keep functioning

Stresses continued functionality, substituting both words in the original phrase.

depend on

Focuses on reliance or dependence, offering a slightly different nuance.

draw power from

Specifies the act of obtaining power, adding detail about the energy source.

persist relentlessly

Emphasizes ongoing persistence, suitable for situations where "run on" implies continuous effort.

be sustained by

Similar to "be powered by" but emphasizes long-term sustenance rather than immediate power.

be fueled by

Highlights the fuel source, akin to "be powered by" but more specific to literal or figurative fuel.

elongate unnecessarily

Focuses on unnecessary continuation, particularly useful when referring to speech or writing.

FAQs

How can I identify a "run on" sentence?

A "run on" sentence typically combines two or more independent clauses without proper punctuation (like a semicolon or period) or a coordinating conjunction (like "and", "but", or "or"). It often feels like multiple thoughts crammed into a single, sprawling sentence.

What's the difference between a comma splice and a "run on" sentence?

A comma splice is a specific type of "run on" sentence where two independent clauses are incorrectly joined only by a comma. All comma splices are "run on" sentences, but not all "run on" sentences are comma splices.

How do I fix a "run on" sentence?

You can fix a "run on" sentence by separating the independent clauses into two separate sentences, using a semicolon to join them, or adding a coordinating conjunction after a comma (e.g., "and", "but", "so").

Is it ever acceptable to use a "run on" sentence?

While generally discouraged in formal writing, "run on" sentences can be used deliberately in creative writing to mimic a stream of consciousness or to create a sense of urgency or breathlessness. However, this should be done sparingly and with conscious intent.