they are run

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they are run" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the operation or management of something, often in a passive construction. Example: "The events are run by a dedicated team of volunteers who ensure everything goes smoothly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

They are run by graduates.

The Economist

They are run, and inspected, by the state.

The Economist

They are run on smaller ovals at lower speeds.

The New York Times - Sports

"They are run like mom-and-pop operations".

The New York Times

They are run by Bangladeshi and Pakistani restaurateurs.

The Washington Post

They are run by an exclusively male team.

Harvard Business Review

They are run by librarians and personalities from the cultural world.

Columbia University

But they are run by human beings and they can be hit by a car.

The Economist

Those benefiting from these groups also have a say in how they are run.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Often they are run by families and/or farmers.

HuffPost

Even dances can have a specific purpose- often they are run as charity events and to raise money.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "they are run", ensure the subject is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "they are run efficiently", specify who or what is being run efficiently (e.g., "the programs are run efficiently").

Common error

While "they are run" is grammatically correct, overuse of passive voice can make your writing sound weak or unclear. Consider using active voice when appropriate (e.g., instead of "the meetings are run by the manager", try "the manager runs the meetings").

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they are run" functions as a passive construction, indicating that a group or entity is being managed or operated by someone or something else. As evidenced by Ludwig, this phrase is commonly used across various contexts to describe how things are organized and controlled.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

22%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "they are run" is a grammatically correct and very common passive construction used to describe how something is managed or operated. According to Ludwig AI, its usage spans across various contexts, from News & Media to Science and Formal & Business settings. While grammatically sound, writers should be mindful of overuse of the passive voice and consider active voice alternatives for clearer communication. This comprehensive analysis provides insights into the function, purpose, register, and usage patterns of the phrase, making it a valuable resource for writers aiming to use it effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they are managed

Focuses on the administrative aspect of running something.

they are operated

Emphasizes the practical functioning or execution of a process or system.

they are administered

Highlights the formal or official handling of affairs.

they are controlled

Stresses the authority and regulation over something.

they are overseen

Implies a supervisory role in the running of something.

they are supervised

Highlights the act of watching and directing something.

they are conducted

Focuses on the organized execution of a task or activity.

they are directed

Emphasizes the guidance and leadership in the operation.

they are governed

Implies a system of rules and regulations.

they are handled

Focuses on the way something is dealt with or managed.

FAQs

How can I use "they are run" in a sentence?

The phrase "they are run" indicates that something is being managed or operated. For example, "The workshops are run by experienced professionals" or "The experiments are run according to strict protocols".

What are some alternatives to "they are run"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "they are managed", "they are operated", or "they are administered".

Is it better to use active or passive voice with phrases like "they are run"?

While passive voice is grammatically correct, active voice often makes sentences clearer and more direct. Consider rewriting sentences to use active voice where appropriate; for example, instead of "the tests are run by the technicians", try "the technicians run the tests".

What's the difference between "they are run" and "they run"?

"They run" is active voice, indicating that the subject performs the action. "They are run" is passive voice, indicating that the subject receives the action. For instance, "They run the company" (active) versus "The companies are run by them" (passive).