was running smoothly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "was running smoothly" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation or process that is functioning without any issues or interruptions in the past. Example: "The event was going well, and everything was running smoothly until the power outage occurred."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

Not everything was running smoothly.

The New York Times

Mr. Brandon insisted everything was running smoothly.

The New York Times

I worked to make sure everyone's life was running smoothly.

The New York Times

My model was running smoothly before I updated from 7.5 though.

Yale University

Although these things are all relative, not everything in the India came was running smoothly.

The Guardian - Sport

The impression I get is that he was making sure his investment was running smoothly".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

All is running smoothly.

The Guardian

But the airports were running smoothly.

The New York Times

Here everything is running smoothly".

The New York Times

Everything appears to be running smoothly.

Princeton University

Everything looks to be running smoothly.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a past event or process, use "was running smoothly" to convey that it proceeded without difficulties or interruptions. It implies efficiency and a lack of problems during that period.

Common error

Avoid using "is running smoothly" when referring to a past situation. The correct tense is "was running smoothly" to indicate that the smooth operation occurred in the past.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "was running smoothly" typically functions as a verb phrase, acting as a predicate in a sentence. It describes the state of something in the past, indicating that a process, system, or operation was functioning without problems or interruptions. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable form.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Academia

13%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "was running smoothly" is a versatile and commonly used expression to describe a past state of efficient and problem-free operation. As validated by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically sound and appears frequently in diverse contexts, from news reports to academic discussions. Its neutral register makes it suitable for various writing styles. Remember to use it accurately when referring to a past situation and to avoid tense errors. Alternatives like "was functioning well" can provide subtle nuances depending on the intended message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

was functioning without problems

Focuses on the absence of issues rather than the efficiency of the operation.

was operating efficiently

Emphasizes the efficiency of the process.

was proceeding without interruption

Highlights the continuous nature of the operation.

was working seamlessly

Implies a smooth and integrated operation.

was progressing effectively

Focuses on the positive outcome of the operation.

was in good working order

Highlights the state of readiness and functionality.

was operating as planned

Focuses on the adherence to a pre-defined plan.

was executing flawlessly

Emphasizes the error-free nature of the operation.

was unfolding successfully

Highlights the positive progression and outcome.

was achieving its objectives

Focuses on the accomplishment of specific goals.

FAQs

How can I use "was running smoothly" in a sentence?

You can use "was running smoothly" to describe a past situation or process that was operating without problems. For example, "The project "was running smoothly" until the budget cuts were announced."

What are some alternatives to "was running smoothly"?

Some alternatives include "was functioning well", "was operating efficiently", or "was proceeding without interruption", depending on the specific context you want to emphasize.

Is it correct to say "is running smoothly" when referring to a completed project?

No, "is running smoothly" implies a present or ongoing action. For a completed project, use ""was running smoothly"" to indicate that it operated without issues in the past.

What's the difference between "was running smoothly" and "is running smoothly"?

"Was running smoothly" refers to a past state of operation, while "is running smoothly" indicates a present or continuous state. The choice depends on whether you are describing a past or current situation.