running on time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "running on time" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is occurring according to schedule or as planned. Example: The train is running on time, so we should arrive at our destination at 3 PM.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Keeping the trains running on time is one thing, and that's important, and that's management, but keeping the trains moving forward is leadership.

Huffington Post

Facing calls to be stripped of the franchise and with barely one in two trains running on time, GTR instigated an emergency timetable on Southern two weeks ago.

The Guardian

"He can get the trains running on time, but the question is where the trains are going," said one senior policy maker.

The New York Times

To general surprise, it was up and running on time.

The Economist

"Eric keeps the trains running on time very efficiently".

The New Yorker

"The trains are running on time or nearly on time".

The New York Times

Like the Eighth Avenue Subway, which was running on time.

The New York Times

(When buses are running on time, they have to endure red lights along with everyone else).

The New York Times

Regardless of what the opposition is saying, universal credit is running on time.

The Guardian - Opinion

In this land of clockwork precision, even the trains have stopped running on time.

The New York Times

Whatever else the Brexit campaign might achieve, it won't get the trains running on time.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "running on time", ensure the subject is clearly defined. For instance, specify "the project is running on time" rather than simply stating "it's running on time".

Common error

Avoid using "running on time" when referring to abstract concepts or situations where a strict schedule isn't relevant. It's best suited for events, projects, or transportation systems that adhere to a timetable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "running on time" functions as a descriptive phrase, typically used to indicate that an event, process, or system is adhering to its planned schedule. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely accepted. For example, "The trains are running on time."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "running on time" is a grammatically correct and very common expression used to describe adherence to a schedule. As Ludwig AI confirms, it follows standard English grammar rules. Predominantly found in News & Media sources, it serves to inform and assure that events or processes are progressing as planned. Remember to use it when referring to schedules and specific timelines and to clarify the subject to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "on schedule" or "punctual" can be used for stylistic variation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on schedule

A more concise way to express adherence to a planned timetable.

punctual

Focuses on the characteristic of being on time.

as planned

Emphasizes that events are unfolding according to the original plan.

meeting the deadline

Highlights achieving a specific time-related goal.

timely

Indicates something happening at the appropriate or expected time.

proceeding as scheduled

A more formal way of saying something is happening as planned.

keeping up with the schedule

Implies an effort to maintain the planned timing.

in a timely manner

Similar to 'timely' but emphasizes the way something is done.

not delayed

Focuses on the absence of lateness.

on target

Indicates progress aligning with expected goals within a timeframe.

FAQs

How can I use "running on time" in a sentence?

You can use "running on time" to describe schedules or events that are proceeding as planned. For example, "The meeting is running on time, so we should finish by 5 PM."

What's a more formal way to say "running on time"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "proceeding as scheduled" or "on schedule".

Which is correct, "running on time" or "on time"?

Both "running on time" and "on time" are correct, but they have slightly different nuances. "Running on time" emphasizes the continuous progress according to the schedule, whereas "on time" simply states that something is punctual.

What's the difference between "running on time" and "meeting the deadline"?

"Running on time" indicates that a process is adhering to its schedule at any given point, while "meeting the deadline" refers specifically to completing something by a set final date. One focuses on continuous progress, and the other, on a final accomplishment.