Help center

Phrasal verbs "drag on" vs "run on"

Differences between drag on and run on

Drag on means to continue for a long time, especially in a boring or tedious way. Run on means to continue without stopping, often in a disorganized or chaotic way.

Meanings and Definitions: drag on vs run on

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Drag on

  • 1Be unnecessarily long.

    The meeting DRAGGED ON for two and a half hours.

Run on

  • 1Be powered by.

    The van RUNS ON diesel.

Usage Examples: drag on, run on in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

drag on

Example

The meeting dragged on for hours.

Example

The lecture drags on and everyone starts to lose interest.

run on

Example

This car runs on electricity.

Example

The generator runs on natural gas.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Drag on

linger on

To continue for longer than necessary or expected.

Example

The meeting lingered on for hours, and everyone was exhausted by the end of it.

go on and on

To continue talking or doing something for an excessive amount of time.

Example

He went on and on about his new car, and I couldn't wait to change the subject.

stretch out

To make something last longer than necessary or expected.

Example

She tried to stretch out the project deadline, but her boss wasn't having it.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Run on

ramble on

To talk at length in a disorganized or incoherent way.

Example

He rambled on about his childhood memories, and I had trouble following his train of thought.

keep going

To continue without stopping, often despite obstacles or challenges.

Example

Despite the rain, the marathon runners kept going until they reached the finish line.

drag out

To make something last longer than necessary or expected, often in a tedious or unnecessary way.

Example

The lawyer tried to drag out the trial by asking irrelevant questions and repeating himself.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “drag”

Phrasal Verbs with “run”

Phrasal Verbs with “on”

Differences in drag on vs run on: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: drag on or run on?

Both drag on and run on are commonly used in everyday conversation, but drag on is more frequently used to describe something that is taking too long or is boring, while run on is more often used to describe a speech or conversation that is going on for too long.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of drag on and run on

Both drag on and run on are informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, in more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of drag on and run on

The tone of drag on is often negative or complaining, as it is usually used to describe something that is tedious or boring. On the other hand, the tone of run on can be neutral or negative, as it is often used to describe a speech or conversation that is going on for too long and is becoming disorganized.

drag on & run on: Synonyms and Antonyms

Run on

Synonyms

This content was generated with the assistance of AI technology based on RedKiwi's unique learning data. By utilizing automated AI content, we can quickly deliver a wide range of highly accurate content to users. Experience the benefits of AI by having your questions answered and receiving reliable information!