The phrase “run an errand” is commonly used in English to describe a quick task or short trip made for a specific purpose. Whether it’s picking up groceries mailing a package or dropping off dry cleaning running an errand is part of everyday life.
In this topic we’ll explore the meaning proper usage and examples of “run an errand” in sentences. This will help you use the phrase naturally in conversation and writing.
What Does “Run an Errand” Mean?
The phrase “run an errand” means to go out and complete a short task or chore typically outside the home. Errands are usually small but necessary activities such as:
- Buying groceries
- Picking up medicine from the pharmacy
- Dropping off a letter at the post office
- Taking clothes to the dry cleaner
The term is commonly used in everyday conversations and can be applied in different tenses and contexts.
How to Use “Run an Errand” in a Sentence
1. Present Tense Examples
- I run an errand every morning before work.
- She runs errands for her elderly neighbor on weekends.
- We run errands together to make things faster.
2. Past Tense Examples
- Yesterday I ran an errand for my mom and picked up some groceries.
- He ran an errand before heading to the office.
- They ran errands all afternoon preparing for the party.
3. Future Tense Examples
- I will run an errand after lunch.
- She is going to run an errand before meeting us.
- We will run errands tomorrow morning.
4. Using “Running an Errand” in Continuous Form
- I am running an errand right now so I’ll call you later.
- He was running an errand when the rain started.
- We were running errands when we saw an old friend.
Common Situations Where You Can Use “Run an Errand”
1. At Work
- “I’ll be back in 30 minutes; I need to run an errand for my boss.”
- “Can you cover for me? I have to run an errand during lunch.”
2. At Home
- “Mom asked me to run an errand and pick up some milk.”
- “Before we relax let’s run some errands and get things done.”
3. In a Conversation with Friends
- “I was supposed to meet you earlier but I had to run an errand first.”
- “Let’s grab coffee after I run a quick errand.”
Synonyms for “Run an Errand”
If you want to avoid repetition you can use alternative phrases like:
- Take care of something → “I need to take care of something before I join you.”
- Do a quick task → “She’s out doing a quick task for her mom.”
- Handle something → “He’s handling a few things before coming home.”
The phrase “run an errand” is widely used in daily life to describe small but essential tasks. Whether you are talking about past present or future errands knowing how to use this phrase correctly makes conversations sound more natural. Try incorporating it into your speech and writing to enhance your fluency in English!
