running errands

USAGE SUMMARY

"running errands" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it whenever you are referring to the activity of going out to do short tasks, like shopping or picking up a package. For example: "I spent the morning running errands - dropping off documents at the bank, picking up groceries, and getting my car serviced."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Running errands for their owners".

The Guardian - Business

She was out running errands.

The New York Times - Health

Cooking food, running errands, helping with Mom.

The New York Times

People · More employees are running errands during work hours.

The New York Times

She said they were always together, running errands.

The New York Times

Services include rides, running errands and reading to the blind.

The New York Times

Some were asked to buy presents for mistresses in between running errands for the wife.

The New York Times - Magazine

Recognized on the street while running errands, "I know now that they know me," she said.

The New York Times - Sports

At the entry level are production assistants, running errands and holding up pedestrians.

The New York Times

"I came back from running errands and there they were," Mrs. Olsen, 37, said.

The New York Times

She'd be out running errands, see something wonderful, pull over, and pop the trunk.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When detailing specific errands, consider listing them to provide clarity and context. For example, "I spent the morning running errands: I went to the post office, the bank, and the grocery store."

Common error

Avoid using "running errands" as a catch-all phrase without providing context. If the specific errands are relevant, mention them to give the reader a clearer understanding of the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "running errands" functions as a gerund phrase, acting as a noun. It describes the activity of performing various short tasks or chores. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound for describing a series of quick outings.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

28%

Wiki

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "running errands" is a grammatically correct and very common gerund phrase used to describe the activity of undertaking multiple short tasks. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is appropriate for everyday language. It is most frequently found in news, media, science, and wiki sources, indicating its widespread use across various contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the context is clear and, if necessary, specify the nature of the errands. Alternative phrases like "doing chores" or "handling tasks" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. The phrase is deemed to have strong source authority and usage consistency.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

doing chores

Focuses more on household tasks rather than external errands.

completing tasks

Focuses on finishing specific jobs, broader than running errands.

handling tasks

Emphasizes the completion of responsibilities, broader than errands.

doing bits and pieces

More informal; refers to small, assorted tasks.

taking care of business

More general and can refer to important matters beyond simple errands.

taking care of business

More general and can refer to important matters beyond simple errands.

taking care of things

Vague; can refer to general responsibilities.

attending to duties

Formal and emphasizes obligation, not just convenience.

ticking off the to-do list

Emphasizes task completion from a list of items.

doing the shopping

Specifically refers to grocery or retail shopping, rather than all errands.

FAQs

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

You can use "running errands" to describe the act of going out to complete various tasks. For example: "I'm going to spend the afternoon "running errands", so I'll be back later."

What are some alternatives to "running errands"?

Alternatives include "doing chores", "handling tasks", or "taking care of business", depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "run errands" instead of "running errands"?

Yes, both are grammatically correct, but they serve different grammatical functions. "Run errands" is an imperative or infinitive form, while "running errands" is a gerund or present participle. For example, "I need to "run errands"" versus "Running errands is part of my daily routine."

What does "running errands" typically involve?

"Running errands" typically involves going to various locations to complete short tasks such as shopping, paying bills, or picking up items. It generally suggests a series of short trips for practical purposes.