run towards

USAGE SUMMARY

"run towards" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it whenever you are talking about someone or something moving in a particular direction. For example: He could see the finish line, so he ran towards it with all his might.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They would run towards them".

The New York Times

Dimon and I run towards it.

The Guardian - Opinion

We go back then run towards them.

The Guardian

Quite the opposite, Britain should run towards China," Osborne said.

The Guardian

In an emergency, the police run towards trouble.

The Guardian

"I just started to run towards the bench," he remembers.

The Guardian - Sport

The girl started to run towards us.

BBC

We told her she needed to run towards us.

BBC

This is how eventually you run towards freedom".

BBC

I was trying to run towards the stairs.

BBC

Mr Harrington asked if he had run towards the fire.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "run towards" to depict a physical movement with intent, emphasizing direction and often speed. For instance, "Seeing the opportunity, he ran towards the goal."

Common error

Avoid using "run towards" metaphorically when a more precise verb would better convey the intended meaning. For example, instead of "run towards success", consider "strive for success".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "run towards" functions primarily as a verb phrase indicating physical movement in a specific direction. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature, with numerous examples showcasing its application in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

34%

News & Media

45%

Science

21%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "run towards" is a grammatically sound and commonly used verb phrase that indicates movement in a specific direction. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and applicable in various contexts, ranging from describing literal physical actions to metaphorical approaches. While its register is generally neutral, writers should consider the surrounding context to ensure the most appropriate tone. The phrase's frequent use in News & Media and Wiki sources underscores its widespread understanding and usability. When seeking alternatives, options like "go toward" or "head for" can offer similar meanings with slight variations in nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

go toward

A simple and direct alternative, suitable for everyday language.

head for

Implies a clear destination and purpose, suggesting a straightforward movement.

hurry toward

Adds a sense of urgency and speed, suggesting a quickened pace.

advance toward

Emphasizes a more measured and deliberate approach, suggesting a planned movement in the direction of something.

make for

Similar to "head for", but can also imply a less direct route or a more opportunistic movement.

dash toward

Suggests a very quick and sudden movement, often due to excitement or panic.

move in the direction of

A more general and descriptive alternative, suitable for less intense or urgent situations.

press on toward

Emphasizes perseverance and determination in moving towards a goal or destination.

approach

Focuses on getting closer to something, often used in a more formal or descriptive context.

spring toward

Implies a sudden and energetic movement, suggesting eagerness or enthusiasm.

FAQs

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

You can use "run towards" to describe physical movement, such as "The dog ran towards its owner", or to describe a figurative approach to a challenge, like "Instead of avoiding problems, you should run towards them".

What are some alternatives to "run towards"?

You can use alternatives like "go toward", "head for", or "advance toward" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it ever incorrect to use "run towards"?

While generally correct, using "run towards" might be inappropriate in formal contexts where a more sophisticated or precise verb could be preferred. Consider the register of your writing and audience.

What does "run towards" imply beyond simple movement?

"Run towards" often implies a sense of urgency, determination, or purpose in the movement. It can also suggest courage or a willingness to face something head-on.