Spanish vocabulary · Beginner
How to Say Run in Spanish: Correr
Correr · verb · koh-RREHR
The Spanish verb for run is 'correr,' referring to the physical act of moving quickly on foot. However, English uses 'run' in many contexts where Spanish uses entirely different verbs: 'funcionar' for machines running, 'dirigir' for running a business, and 'postularse' for running for office.
Pronounce 'correr' as koh-RREHR, rolling the double 'r.' It is a regular '-er' verb with straightforward conjugation.
Me gusta correr por el parque todas las mañanas.
I like to run in the park every morning.
Run in Spanish: Quick Reference
Below are the most common Spanish words for run, with pronunciation and regional usage notes.
| Spanish | English | Pronunciation | Region / Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| correr | run | koh-RREHR | Default, widely understood |
| funcionar | run | to run (a machine or program) | |
| dirigir | run | to run (a business or organization) |
How Native Speakers Use Correr
Real example sentences across three contexts you'll actually run into.
Physical exercise
Corro cinco kilómetros todos los días para mantenerme en forma.
I run five kilometers every day to stay fit.
Describing a daily fitness routine.
Being late
¡Corre, que vamos a perder el autobús!
Run, we're going to miss the bus!
Urging someone to hurry.
Technology
Este programa no funciona en mi computadora vieja.
This program doesn't run on my old computer.
Discussing software compatibility issues.
Avoid These Mistakes When Using Correr
Using 'correr' for running a business
Incorrect: Mi padre corre una empresa.
Correct: Mi padre dirige una empresa.
To run or manage a business requires 'dirigir' or 'administrar' in Spanish. Using 'correr' would literally mean your father runs (physically) a company.
Using 'correr' for running a program
Incorrect: No puedo correr esta aplicación.
Correct: No puedo ejecutar esta aplicación. / Esta aplicación no funciona.
For software, Spanish uses 'ejecutar' (to execute) or 'funcionar' (to work/run), not 'correr.'
Lock in Run Vocabulary with the Parrot Method
Why word lists alone don't stick
Memorizing a translation feels productive, but most learners forget 70% of what they studied within 48 hours. Vocabulary needs spaced repetition AND real-world exposure to transfer to long-term memory.
See Correr used by native speakers
Parrot's short-form videos feature native speakers using correr in real situations. Context-based exposure beats flashcards, you hear Me gusta correr por el parque todas las mañanas. while watching someone live the moment, connecting meaning, sound, and rhythm at once.
Save, review, repeat, stay consistent
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Common Questions About Run in Spanish
- Is 'correr' a regular verb?
- The verb 'correr' is completely regular in all tenses, following the standard '-er' verb conjugation pattern, which makes it one of the easier verbs for beginners to learn.
- How do you say 'running' as a sport in Spanish?
- The sport of running is referred to as 'correr' (the infinitive used as a noun), 'atletismo' for track and field, or the loanword 'running' which is increasingly popular in fitness circles.
- What are the different Spanish verbs for English 'run'?
- Spanish uses 'correr' for physical movement, 'funcionar' for machines, 'dirigir' for organizations, 'postularse' for political candidacy, and 'gotear' for a running nose, each requiring a different verb.