running down

USAGE SUMMARY

"running down" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is usually used as a verb phrase and can have multiple meanings depending on the context. One common usage of "running down" is to describe a person or an animal physically moving in a downward direction, such as running down a hill or running down the stairs. Example: The dog was running down the street, chasing after a squirrel. Another meaning of "running down" is to describe the act of criticizing or speaking negatively about someone or something. Example: My boss is always running down my work, it's really demotivating. It can also be used to describe the process of using up or depleting something. Example: The batteries in my remote control are running down, I need to replace them soon. Finally, "running down" can also refer to the act of searching for or pursuing something. Example: I've been running down every lead I can find, but I still can't locate my lost wallet. Overall, "running down" is a versatile phrase that can be used in various contexts to convey different meanings. It is commonly used in both written and spoken English.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Its gasfields are running down.

The Economist

Running down the pavement.

The Guardian

"It's running down me.

The New York Times

He sees Jean running down the street.

The New Yorker

Tears were running down my cheeks.

The New York Times

And then we started running down.

The New York Times - Magazine

One single tear running down his cheek.

The New Yorker

Suffered from stubbornly running down Scottish alleys.

Independent

He was running down the beach.

The New York Times

Proper tears running down her face.

The New Yorker

Blood was running down his left knee.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "running down" to mean criticizing, be mindful of the tone and ensure it doesn't come across as overly aggressive or unfair. Consider using more constructive language.

Common error

Avoid using "running down" when a simpler, more direct verb would suffice. For instance, instead of saying "The clock is running down", you can simply state "Time is running out".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "running down" functions primarily as a verb phrase. It expresses action, either in a literal sense (moving downward) or in a figurative sense (depleting resources, criticizing, or investigating). Ludwig AI indicates its diverse applicability, backed by numerous real-world examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the verb phrase "running down" is a versatile expression with multiple meanings ranging from physical descent to resource depletion and criticism. As Ludwig highlights, its correct usage depends heavily on context. It's most frequently found in news and media sources, reflecting its broad applicability. While the phrase is generally neutral in register, careful attention should be paid to the tone, especially when used to express criticism, in order to maintain clarity and avoid misinterpretations. Simple, more direct alternatives can sometimes enhance clarity, but "running down" remains a useful and commonly understood phrase in many situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

decreasing

This alternative focuses on the reduction or depletion aspect of "running down".

depleting

This alternative highlights the act of using up resources or energy, similar to one sense of "running down".

criticizing

This alternative emphasizes the negative evaluation or disparagement aspect of "running down".

denigrating

This option suggests a stronger form of criticism, implying a belittling or undermining action, similar to the negative connotation of "running down".

pursuing

This suggests the act of chasing or following, aligning with the "running after" meaning of "running down".

chasing

Focuses on the act of actively pursuing or following someone or something, similar to one meaning of "running down".

descending

Emphasizes the downward movement aspect, similar to the literal meaning of "running down".

declining

This alternative centers on the process of diminishing or deteriorating, capturing a sense of gradual reduction.

investigating

This term highlights the process of looking into or examining something, akin to "running down" leads.

examining

This alternative emphasizes a closer look or detailed inspection, resembling the investigative sense of "running down".

FAQs

How can I use "running down" in a sentence?

The phrase "running down" can be used in various contexts. For example, "The athlete was running down the track", or "The company is running down its resources", or even "He is always running down my efforts".

What are some alternatives to "running down" when it means criticizing?

When "running down" means criticizing, you can use alternatives like "criticizing", "denigrating", or "belittling".

Which is correct, "running down" or "running downwards"?

"Running down" and "running downwards" can both be correct, but they have slightly different usages. "Running down" is more common and versatile, while "running downwards" specifically refers to moving in a downward direction.

What does it mean when someone says they are "running down" leads?

When someone says they are "running down" leads, it means they are actively "pursuing" or investigating those leads in order to find information or solve a problem.