would run

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "would run" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to express a hypothetical situation or a conditional action that may occur in the future or under certain circumstances. Example: "If I had the chance, I would run a marathon next year."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

She would run away.

The Economist

We would run.

The New York Times - Arts

I would run the same.

The New York Times - Sports

"I would run the companies.

The New Yorker

He would run away squeaking.

The Economist

Who would run the bank?

The Economist

You would run anything there".

Independent

That would run $4,000.

The New York Times

She never thought he would run.

The New York Times - Sports

This would run contrary to regulators' wishes.

The New York Times

Normally this story would run for days.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "would run" to express hypothetical scenarios or potential actions. For example, "If I trained harder, I would run faster."

Common error

Avoid using "would run" when a simple past tense ("ran") or present tense ("run") is more appropriate. "I would run yesterday" is incorrect; instead, say "I ran yesterday".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "would run" functions primarily as a modal verb phrase, expressing hypothetical actions, intentions, or capabilities in both past and future contexts. It indicates a conditional or potential action, as supported by numerous examples presented by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Science

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "would run" is a versatile modal verb phrase primarily used to express hypothetical or conditional actions, intentions, or capabilities. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and very common, particularly in news and media contexts. When using "would run", ensure it aligns with the intended hypothetical or conditional meaning, avoiding simple past or present tense situations. Alternatives like "might run" or "could run" can provide nuanced variations in certainty or ability. Pay attention to tense consistency and use cases to avoid errors. The numerous examples from reputable sources underscore its widespread applicability and semantic richness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

might run

Expresses a possibility that the action of running could happen, reducing the certainty.

could run

Indicates the ability or potential to run, rather than a definite intention.

was going to run

Suggests a past intention to run that may or may not have been fulfilled.

intended to run

Focuses on the plan or intention to run, highlighting the mental decision.

planned to run

Similar to 'intended to run' but emphasizes the preparation and arrangement.

was to run

Expresses an obligation or scheduled event to run.

was supposed to run

Implies an expectation or arrangement for running that might not have happened.

had to run

Indicates a necessity or requirement to run.

needed to run

Suggests a need or reason for running.

used to run

Describes a past habit of running.

FAQs

How can I use "would run" in a sentence?

"Would run" is used to describe hypothetical or conditional actions. For example, "If I had more time, I would run a marathon" or "She said she would run for office if she had enough support."

What are some alternatives to "would run"?

Depending on the context, you could use "might run", "could run", or "was going to run". These alternatives offer varying degrees of certainty or intention.

Which is correct: "would run" or "will run"?

"Would run" implies a hypothetical or conditional situation, while "will run" expresses a future intention or certainty. Use "would run" for hypotheticals and "will run" for definite plans.

What's the difference between "would run" and "used to run"?

"Would run" indicates a conditional action or a past habit, while "used to run" describes a past habit that is no longer practiced. For example, "I would run if it wasn't raining" versus "I "used to run" every morning before work".