Translation guide
The English word 'run' has many meanings. This guide covers the most common uses for learners: moving quickly on foot, operating a machine or program, managing an organization, and more. Each meaning is matched with natural Japanese expressions.
To move at a speed faster than walking, using legs.
The most common and general verb for 'run' (on foot). Can be used for people, animals, and vehicles.
He runs in the park every morning.
Implies dashing or sprinting, often with a sense of urgency or speed. More literary or dramatic than 走る.
Formal term for 'running' of vehicles or machines. Not used for people running.
This train runs at 100 km/h.
To cause a machine, engine, or software to function.
To manage, operate, or be responsible for a business, organization, or event.
To manage a business or company. Focuses on the business aspect.
For liquids, rivers, or other continuous movement.
For roads, lines, or boundaries that continue in a direction.
To pass through, go along. 'The road runs along the coast' is 道が海岸沿いを通っている.
To stand as a candidate for a political office.
Standard term for running for office.
For events, shows, or contracts that last a certain duration.
Intransitive verb meaning 'to continue, last'. 'The show runs for two hours' is ショーは2時間続く.
English 'run' covers many concepts that require different Japanese verbs. Using 走る for 'run a company' or 'run a program' will cause confusion. Always match the verb to the specific meaning.
The dog is running around the yard.
彼は駅まで駆けて行った。
He dashed to the station.
General verb meaning 'to operate/move something'. Used for machines, engines, etc.
Please run the engine.
This machine runs on electricity.
Specifically for running a computer program or command.
Please run the program.
Used for operating vehicles or large machinery. Implies driving or piloting.
He is running a truck.
He runs a small restaurant.
To run or operate an organization, system, or event. Broader than 経営, includes non-profits, schools, etc.
The organization is run by volunteers.
To take charge and manage everything, often used for events or projects. Implies hands-on control.
He ran the party preparations.
Intransitive verb for liquids, time, or things flowing. 'The river runs' is 川が流れる.
The river runs through the town.
Tears ran down her cheeks.
Transitive verb: to let flow, to run water, etc. 'Run the tap' is 水道を流す.
Don't leave the tap running.
This road runs through the mountains.
To extend, stretch. Used for roads, railways, etc. that extend to a place.
The railway runs to the town.
He intends to run for mayor.
Literally 'to ride out a horse', used figuratively for entering a political race. Slightly more formal or literary.
He announced he would run for president.
The movie runs for three hours.
Specifically for performances (plays, shows) being staged. 'The play runs until May' is その劇は5月まで上演される.
This musical runs until next month.
Correct: 'run a company' (manage)