smooth running

USAGE SUMMARY

"smooth running" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe the smooth, efficient, and successful progress of an action or event. For example, "Thanks to the diligent work of our administrative staff, the project was a smooth running success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

Many of these interrupt Mario's smooth running path.

The New York Times - Arts

Ports, power lines and schools are essential to the smooth running of the economy.

The Economist

Nor has he exploited Poland's smooth running of the rotating E.U. presidency.

The New York Times

This should mean faster web-surfing and smooth running of powerful apps.

Independent

Technically, in terms of verisimilitude and smooth running, the results seem almost perfect.

The Guardian - Opinion

Their experience shows in the smooth running of the new Roslyn spot.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

Disney's SVOD services, on the other hand, just need to play their parts in an overall smooth-running Disney machine.

TechCrunch

B: At work I think of myself as part of a smooth-running machine".

The New York Times

The state of health implies proper, smooth-running metabolic machinery.

Encyclopedia Britannica

On most days, his life was in the hands of a smooth-running machine but a not-so-smooth-running medical system.

The New York Times - Health

The Jets, 16-3 winners last night, are by no means a smooth-running machine yet.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you want to emphasize efficiency and lack of problems, "smooth running" is a good choice. This can be particularly helpful in business contexts.

Common error

While "smooth running" is appropriate for formal and professional contexts, avoid overusing it in casual conversation. In informal settings, consider alternatives like "going well" or "working fine" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "smooth running" functions primarily as a descriptive adjective modifying a noun, indicating a state of efficient and trouble-free operation. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is both correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "smooth running" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to describe efficient and problem-free operations. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and correctness. Predominantly found in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business contexts, it maintains a neutral to professional tone. When aiming for alternative expressions, consider options like "efficient operation" or "seamless execution" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. While effective in formal writing, avoid overuse in casual settings to maintain a natural voice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

efficient operation

Emphasizes the efficiency aspect, focusing on effective operation rather than the process itself.

seamless execution

Highlights the flawless and uninterrupted nature of the execution.

trouble-free operation

Focuses on the absence of problems or difficulties during operation.

effortless performance

Stresses the ease and lack of strain in achieving the performance.

streamlined process

Indicates a process that has been optimized for efficiency and effectiveness.

well-organized management

Highlights the organizational aspect of management contributing to smooth functionality.

effective functioning

Focuses on the ability of something to function effectively and achieve its intended purpose.

fluid performance

Emphasizes the continuous and graceful aspect of the performance.

orderly procedure

Highlights the systematic and organized nature of the procedure.

uninterrupted service

Focuses on the continuous and reliable delivery of service without interruptions.

FAQs

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

You can use "smooth running" to describe something that operates efficiently and without problems. For instance, "The new software ensures the "smooth running" of the entire system."

What are some alternatives to "smooth running"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "efficient operation", "seamless execution", or "trouble-free operation".

Is "smooth running" formal or informal?

The term "smooth running" is generally considered neutral and suitable for formal and professional contexts. However, it can also be used in less formal situations, although alternatives may sound more natural in casual conversations.

What does "smooth running" typically describe?

The phrase "smooth running" typically describes processes, systems, or organizations that operate without difficulties, interruptions, or errors, ensuring efficiency and reliability.