run-down

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "run-down" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is in poor condition or neglected, often referring to buildings or areas. Example: "The old factory was a run-down structure that had not been maintained for years."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

"Run-down," he said.

The New York Times - Travel

"And it's so run-down".

The New York Times - Arts

Run-down taxis.

The New York Times

It looked run-down.

The New Yorker

Some places seemed dated or run-down.

The New York Times

"It was very run-down," he said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

Run Down?

Independent

"You seem really run down".

The New Yorker

It was run down.

The New York Times

"They run down fences.

The New York Times

We were run down.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a building or place as "run-down", consider specifying what aspects are in disrepair (e.g., the roof, paint, or plumbing) for greater clarity.

Common error

Avoid simply labeling everything as "run-down". Instead, offer specific details about the disrepair, such as "The building's facade was cracked and the windows were boarded up", to create a more vivid image for the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "run-down" primarily functions as an adjective, modifying nouns to describe their condition. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is used to describe something in poor condition or neglected. Examples from Ludwig show its use in describing buildings, taxis, and communities.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "run-down" is a versatile adjective phrase primarily used to describe something in a state of disrepair or exhaustion. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and frequently appears in news and media contexts. The phrase serves to communicate a negative assessment of a condition, whether it be a building, a person's health, or a summary of events. While it's generally neutral in tone, providing specific details can enhance its descriptive impact. Related phrases like "dilapidated", "exhausted", and "summary" offer alternative ways to convey similar meanings depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Dilapidated

Indicates a state of disrepair or ruin, similar to "run-down" but often emphasizes the physical condition of a structure.

Decrepit

Describes something weakened by old age or neglect, close in meaning to "run-down" when referring to buildings or objects.

In disrepair

Directly states the condition of needing repair, similar to "run-down" in describing physical states.

Ramshackle

Suggests a state of extreme disrepair and instability, akin to a severely "run-down" structure.

Exhausted

When "run-down" refers to a person's state, this alternative captures the feeling of being extremely tired.

Weary

Similar to exhausted, conveys a sense of fatigue and depletion, mirroring the "run-down" feeling.

Comprehensive summary

When "run-down" refers to a summary, this phrase provides a fuller, more formal substitute.

Detailed account

A lengthier, more explanatory option, useful when "run-down" is used to mean a brief overview.

Falling apart

Highlights the process of decay and disintegration, similar to the state implied by "run-down".

Neglected

Emphasizes the lack of care and maintenance, leading to a "run-down" condition.

FAQs

How can I use "run-down" in a sentence?

You can use "run-down" to describe a building (The old house was "run-down" and needed repairs), a person's health (I felt "run-down" after a long week), or a summary (Here's a "run-down" of the events).

What are some synonyms for "run-down"?

Depending on the context, you can use words like "dilapidated" (for buildings), "exhausted" (for health), or "summary" (for a brief account).

Is it better to say "run-down" or "dilapidated"?

Both "run-down" and "dilapidated" describe something in poor condition, but "dilapidated" often implies a more advanced state of disrepair, particularly for buildings. "Run-down" can also apply to a person's health or a summary of events.

What's the difference between "run-down" and "tired"?

While both terms can describe a person's state, "run-down" often suggests a more prolonged or chronic state of fatigue and possible ill health, whereas "tired" is typically a temporary condition.