run late — be delayed
collocationB1IELTS 5+neutralcommon
To be behind schedule or not arrive or finish at the expected time.
Say it like a native
Textbook I am currently behind my anticipated schedule.
Native Sorry, I'm running a bit late.
'Running late' is the natural everyday phrase; 'behind my anticipated schedule' is stiff.
Pattern: run late (for something)
In use
- Sorry, I'm running late because the bus was delayed.daily life
- If I run late for class, I always send my teacher a quick message to let them know.IELTS speaking
Common mistake
✗ I'm running late for ten minutes.
✓ I'm running ten minutes late.
Put the amount before 'late': 'running ten minutes late'.
Common collocations
run late + degree— a bit late, ten minutes late, running late, late again
Don't confuse it
Not the same as 'be late on purpose' or 'stay up late.'