Phrasal verb
run around
Irregular verb
Forms
Infinitive
run around
Past
ran around
Past participle
run around
Definition
phrasal verb. to be very busy doing many different tasks or errands in different places. You use this when you feel rushed because you have so much to do.
phrasal verb. To move about hurriedly while attending to various responsibilities or errands. The verb functions intransitively in this sense and often implies a degree of disorganization or stress.
Examples
“I've been running around all morning trying to finish my chores.”
“Between dropping the kids at school and attending three meetings, I've been running around all day without a break.”
“The administrative staff spent the entire week running around to ensure the international conference proceeded without any logistical failures or scheduling conflicts.”
Examples
simple
“I've been running around all morning trying to finish my chores.”
contextual
“Between dropping the kids at school and attending three meetings, I've been running around all day without a break.”
complex
“The administrative staff spent the entire week running around to ensure the international conference proceeded without any logistical failures or scheduling conflicts.”
Usage
This phrase is frequently used in the present continuous to describe a current state of being overwhelmed by tasks.
Teaching tip
Contrast with 'run errands'; 'run around' focuses on the frantic feeling of the person, whereas 'run errands' focuses on the tasks themselves.
Pitfall
I am running around errands.
I am running errands.
Learners often incorrectly add the particle 'around' to the transitive expression 'run errands'.
Phrasal verb
Particles
around
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
run + around
Synonyms
Antonyms
Word family
NOUN
PHRASAL VERB
PREPOSITION
Grammar
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
- Frequency
- Very common
- Level
- B1 · Intermediate
- Updated
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