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A1 verb #1,200 most common 16 min read

Correr

Top 1,200

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips Correr in 30 Seconds

Explanation Correr in your Level:

At the A1 beginner level, the verb correr is introduced primarily in its most literal sense: the physical action of running. As a learner, you will encounter this word when discussing basic daily routines, hobbies, and physical activities. It is a regular verb ending in -er, making its present tense conjugation (eu corro, tu corres, ele/ela corre, nós corremos, eles/elas correm) one of the first grammatical patterns you will memorize. You will practice using it in simple, declarative sentences such as 'Eu corro no parque' (I run in the park) or 'Ela corre rápido' (She runs fast). At this stage, the focus is on building a foundational vocabulary related to movement and action. You will also learn to form basic negative sentences, like 'Eu não corro' (I do not run), and simple questions, such as 'Tu corres todos os dias?' (Do you run every day?). The vocabulary surrounding the verb at this level includes common locations (no parque, na praia, na rua) and simple adverbs of time and frequency (hoje, amanhã, sempre, nunca). While you might briefly hear its metaphorical uses, your primary goal at A1 is to master the physical definition and the present indicative conjugation. Understanding how to pronounce the double 'rr' is also a key phonetic milestone at this level, as it is a distinct sound in Portuguese that requires practice. By mastering correr in its simplest form, you lay the groundwork for understanding more complex verbs of motion and the regular -er conjugation paradigm, which applies to hundreds of other essential Portuguese verbs.

Moving into the A2 elementary level, your understanding and usage of correr expand significantly. You will begin to use the verb in past tenses, specifically the Pretérito Perfeito (simple past) to describe completed actions: 'Eu corri ontem' (I ran yesterday) and the Pretérito Imperfeito (past continuous/habitual) to describe past habits: 'Eu corria todos os dias quando era jovem' (I used to run every day when I was young). This allows you to tell simple stories and recount past events. Furthermore, A2 introduces the immediate future using the auxiliary verb ir: 'Eu vou correr amanhã' (I am going to run tomorrow). Beyond physical movement, you will start encountering the highly common idiomatic use of correr to describe how events unfold. Phrases like 'A festa correu bem' (The party went well) or 'O teste correu mal' (The test went badly) become essential tools for your daily conversations. You will learn that in this context, the verb is almost always used in the third person singular or plural. Additionally, you will be introduced to basic prepositions used with the verb, such as correr para (to run towards) or correr com (to run with). The vocabulary associated with the verb broadens to include sports terminology (maratona, corrida, sapatilhas). At this stage, the goal is to transition from merely describing physical actions to using the verb to evaluate situations and narrate past experiences, making your Portuguese sound much more natural and conversational.

At the B1 intermediate level, the verb correr becomes a gateway to more sophisticated expression and idiomatic fluency. You are expected to comfortably navigate all indicative tenses, including the future (eu correrei) and conditional (eu correria). More importantly, B1 introduces the subjunctive mood, which is heavily reliant on verbs like correr. You will frequently use expressions of hope or doubt, such as 'Espero que tudo corra bem' (I hope everything goes well) or 'Duvido que ele corra a maratona' (I doubt he will run the marathon). This marks a significant leap in your ability to express abstract thoughts and emotions. The metaphorical uses of the verb also multiply at this level. You will learn to use it for liquids ('a água corre'), time ('o tempo corre'), and technology ('o programa corre no computador'). You will also begin to master common idiomatic expressions, such as 'correr o risco' (to run the risk) or 'deixar correr' (to let things take their course). The distinction between correr (to run) and fugir (to flee) becomes clearer, allowing for more precise vocabulary choices. You will practice using the verb in complex sentences with conjunctions (embora, para que, se). At B1, correr is no longer just a word for physical exercise; it is a versatile linguistic tool used to navigate social interactions, express hypothetical scenarios, and describe the flow of life and events with greater nuance and cultural appropriateness.

Reaching the B2 upper-intermediate level means you have a solid grasp of the mechanics of correr and are now focusing on stylistic refinement and advanced idiomatic usage. You will use the verb effortlessly across all tenses and moods, including complex compound tenses like the Pretérito Mais-que-perfeito Composto (tinha corrido) to sequence past events. Your use of the subjunctive becomes instinctive, allowing you to seamlessly integrate phrases like 'Mesmo que corra mal, vou tentar' (Even if it goes badly, I will try). At this level, you are expected to understand and use a wide array of phrasal verbs and fixed expressions. For example, 'correr atrás do prejuízo' (to make up for lost time/mistakes) or 'correr mundo' (to travel the world). You will also encounter the verb in more formal or journalistic contexts, where its synonym 'decorrer' might be used, and you will know exactly when to choose one over the other based on the register of the conversation. The nuances of prepositions become critical; you understand the difference between 'correr por' (to run for a cause) and 'correr para' (to run towards a destination). You will also be comfortable using the verb as a noun in the form of an infinitive, such as 'O correr faz bem à saúde' (Running is good for health). At B2, your usage of correr mirrors that of a native speaker in everyday situations, demonstrating flexibility, accuracy, and a deep understanding of the cultural idioms embedded in the language.

At the C1 advanced level, your command of correr is near-native, characterized by an effortless ability to deploy the verb in highly abstract, literary, and specialized contexts. You are no longer just communicating; you are manipulating the language for effect. You will encounter and use the verb in complex literary structures, poetry, and advanced academic or professional discourse. The metaphorical extensions of the verb are fully integrated into your vocabulary. You understand subtle regional variations in its usage and pronunciation between European, Brazilian, and African Portuguese. You can effortlessly comprehend and utilize obscure or highly specific idioms, such as 'correr à solta' (to run wild) or 'fazer o sangue correr frio' (to make one's blood run cold). In professional settings, you use it to discuss the execution of complex strategies or the flow of financial markets. You are adept at using the personal infinitive, a unique feature of Portuguese, in sentences like 'É importante nós corrermos agora' (It is important for us to run now). At this stage, errors are rare and usually related to highly specific stylistic choices rather than grammatical misunderstandings. You can play with the word, using it sarcastically or emphatically. The verb correr serves as a testament to your deep immersion in the language, allowing you to express the most nuanced thoughts regarding time, progress, risk, and physical dynamism with absolute precision and elegance.

At the C2 mastery level, your understanding of correr transcends practical usage and enters the realm of deep linguistic and cultural comprehension. You possess an intuitive grasp of the verb's etymology, its historical evolution from the Latin 'currere', and how it has shaped the Portuguese lexicon. You can analyze its usage in classic Portuguese literature, recognizing how authors like Eça de Queirós or Machado de Assis employed it to convey rhythm, urgency, or the inexorable passage of time. You are capable of creating your own metaphors and poetic imagery using the verb, knowing exactly how it will resonate with a native speaker. Your mastery includes a complete understanding of all dialectal variations, slang, and archaic forms. You can effortlessly switch between the most formal, academic use of the verb (or its derivatives like 'decorrer' and 'incorrer') and the most informal street slang. You understand the socio-linguistic implications of using certain idioms over others. At this pinnacle of language learning, correr is a fully internalized concept. You do not translate it; you feel its weight, its speed, and its fluidity within the Portuguese linguistic framework. You can engage in complex philosophical discussions about the 'running' of time or the 'flow' of existence, using the verb as a precise instrument of high-level intellectual and artistic expression.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

Correr in 30 Seconds

Physical movement: To run fast.
Event evaluation: How things go.
Liquid flow: Water running.
Time passing: Time flies.

The Portuguese verb correr is an essential and highly versatile word that translates primarily to the English verb to run. However, its usage extends far beyond the simple physical act of moving rapidly on foot. Understanding correr requires diving into its various applications across different contexts, from physical exercise and sports to metaphorical expressions involving time, liquids, and even the functioning of machinery. When we talk about the physical act of running, correr is the standard term. Whether you are jogging in the park for health benefits, sprinting in a competitive race, or simply rushing to catch a bus before it departs, this verb perfectly captures the action of rapid bipedal movement. It is a fundamental vocabulary word introduced very early in a learner's journey, typically at the A1 CEFR level, because it describes a basic human action.

Eu gosto de correr no parque todas as manhãs.

Beyond human movement, correr is frequently used to describe the flow of liquids. Just as in English where we say the water is running, in Portuguese, you can say a água está a correr or a água corre. This applies to rivers, streams, tears, and tap water. The fluidity of the movement is the common thread connecting the physical running of a person and the flowing of water.

Liquid Flow: Used to describe rivers, streams, or tap water moving continuously.

Furthermore, correr is deeply embedded in expressions related to time. Time flies or time runs out are concepts easily translated using this verb. O tempo corre (time runs) emphasizes the fleeting nature of our moments. This metaphorical extension demonstrates the verb's flexibility and its importance in achieving fluency.

O tempo parece correr quando estamos nos divertindo.

Another critical context for correr involves the operation or functioning of systems, processes, or events. If a meeting goes well, a Portuguese speaker might say a reunião correu bem. Here, correr translates more closely to to go or to proceed. This usage is ubiquitous in daily conversation, making it crucial for learners to grasp early on. You will hear people asking Como correram as coisas? (How did things go?) or hoping that tudo corra bem (everything goes well). This shifts the verb from a physical action to an abstract evaluation of progress. Let us also consider the grammatical aspects of correr. It is a regular verb ending in -er, which makes its conjugation relatively straightforward for beginners.

Conjugation Group: Belongs to the second conjugation group of Portuguese verbs, ending in -er.

However, its frequent use means that learners must become comfortable with it in all tenses, including the subjunctive mood, which is heavily used in Portuguese to express wishes or uncertainties, such as in the phrase espero que tudo corra bem. The mastery of this verb opens doors to understanding countless idiomatic expressions and colloquialisms.

Espero que a tua entrevista possa correr muito bem amanhã.

For instance, correr o risco means to run the risk, a direct parallel to English. Similarly, correr atrás do prejuízo translates literally to run after the loss, but it means to try to make up for lost time or a mistake. These idioms enrich the learner's vocabulary and provide insight into the cultural mindset of Portuguese speakers.

Idiomatic Usage: Forms the basis of many cultural idioms expressing risk, effort, and time management.

In summary, correr is not just a word for athletes or people in a hurry. It is a foundational element of the Portuguese language, weaving through descriptions of physical movement, the passage of time, the flow of nature, and the unfolding of events.

Temos que correr para não perder o comboio das cinco.

By exploring its many facets, learners can significantly enhance their communicative competence and express themselves with greater nuance and precision. As you continue to study Portuguese, pay close attention to the contexts in which correr appears, and you will soon appreciate its remarkable versatility and indispensable role in everyday communication.

A água do rio costuma correr mais rápido durante o inverno.

Using the verb correr correctly in sentences requires an understanding of its grammatical structure, its various meanings, and the prepositions that often accompany it. Because it is a regular -er verb, its conjugation follows predictable patterns, which is a relief for learners. However, the true challenge lies in selecting the right context and preposition to convey your intended meaning accurately. Let us explore the mechanics of building sentences with correr. When used to mean physical running, it is often an intransitive verb, meaning it does not require a direct object. You simply state who is running. For example, Eu corro (I run) or Eles correm (They run).

As crianças gostam de correr no quintal.

To add detail, you use prepositions to indicate where, when, or how the running happens. To say you run in a place, use the preposition em (which contracts with articles to form no, na, nos, nas). Eu corro no parque (I run in the park). To indicate direction or destination, use para (to/towards). Ela corre para a escola (She runs to school).

Preposition 'em': Used to indicate the location where the running takes place, often contracting to no/na.

When correr means 'to go' or 'to happen' in the context of events, it is typically followed by an adverb like bem (well) or mal (badly). A festa correu bem (The party went well). This structure is incredibly common and should be memorized as a fixed pattern.

O projeto vai correr perfeitamente se seguirmos o plano.

You can also use adjectives to describe the state of the subject while running, but remember that in Portuguese, adverbs are preferred for modifying the verb itself. Ele corre rapidamente (He runs quickly) is standard, though colloquially you might hear Ele corre rápido. Another important construction involves the preposition de when talking about running away from something, though the verb fugir is more precise for fleeing. Still, correr de can be used in specific contexts. More commonly, you will see correr atrás de, which means to run after or to pursue. Eu corro atrás dos meus sonhos (I run after my dreams).

Phrasal Structure: 'Correr atrás de' is a powerful phrase used both literally and metaphorically to denote pursuit.

In the context of time, correr is used similarly to English. O tempo corre (Time runs/flies). You can also use it to describe liquids. A água corre pela torneira (The water runs through the tap).

Deixei a água correr para encher a banheira.

When forming negative sentences, simply place the word não before the verb. Eu não corro todos os dias (I do not run every day). For questions, the sentence structure remains the same as a statement, but the intonation rises at the end. Tu corres? (Do you run?). In compound tenses, correr uses the auxiliary verb ter. Eu tenho corrido muito ultimamente (I have been running a lot lately). This continuous aspect is vital for expressing ongoing habits.

Nós vamos correr na maratona no próximo ano.

Finally, let us touch upon the imperative mood, used for giving commands. Corre! (Run! - informal singular) or Corra! (Run! - formal singular). This is often heard in sports or urgent situations.

Imperative Mood: Used frequently in emergency situations or athletic coaching to command immediate action.

Mastering these sentence structures will give you the confidence to use correr naturally and accurately in a wide variety of conversational settings.

Se vires o autocarro, tens de correr muito rápido.

The verb correr is ubiquitous in the Portuguese-speaking world, echoing through various facets of daily life, media, and specialized environments. Its versatility ensures that you will encounter it frequently, regardless of your location or the context of your conversation. One of the most common places you will hear correr is in the realm of sports and fitness. In parks, gyms, and along beaches, people discuss their exercise routines. You will hear phrases like 'Vou correr cinco quilómetros hoje' (I am going to run five kilometers today) or 'Ele adora correr na passadeira' (He loves running on the treadmill). Sports commentators on television and radio use it constantly during football matches, athletics, and motor racing.

O jogador teve de correr o campo todo para marcar o golo.

Beyond the physical domain, the workplace is another environment where correr is heavily utilized, albeit in a metaphorical sense. In offices across Portugal and Brazil, colleagues frequently ask each other about the progress of projects, meetings, and negotiations. 'Como correu a reunião com o cliente?' (How did the meeting with the client go?) is a standard inquiry. If a project is proceeding smoothly, a manager might report that 'tudo está a correr como planeado' (everything is going as planned).

Corporate Context: Essential for discussing the status, success, or failure of business activities.

This usage is so ingrained that it forms the backbone of professional communication regarding status updates. In casual social settings, such as cafes, restaurants, or family gatherings, correr appears when people are catching up on each other's lives. A friend might ask, 'Como têm corrido as coisas?' (How have things been going?).

Espero que a tua nova vida na cidade comece a correr bem.

It is also used when someone is in a hurry. You might hear someone excusing themselves by saying, 'Tenho de correr, estou atrasado!' (I have to run, I am late!). Furthermore, the verb is prevalent in literature, poetry, and music, often employed to evoke a sense of urgency, the passage of time, or the flow of emotions. Songs frequently feature lyrics about running away from problems or running towards a loved one.

Artistic Expression: Used in lyrics and poetry to symbolize the unstoppable nature of time or intense emotional pursuit.

In medical or emergency contexts, the word takes on a literal and urgent tone. Paramedics, doctors, or bystanders might yell 'Corre!' to prompt immediate action to save a life or prevent a disaster.

Quando o alarme de incêndio tocou, todos começaram a correr para a saída.

Even in mundane household situations, you will hear it. A parent might tell a child, 'Não deixes a água correr enquanto lavas os dentes' (Do not let the water run while you brush your teeth). Finally, the digital world is not exempt. In software and technology, users might talk about a program running. 'O programa está a correr em segundo plano' (The program is running in the background).

Technological Context: Translates the English concept of executing or operating software applications.

This broad spectrum of usage—from the physical exertion on a track to the silent execution of computer code—highlights why mastering the various contexts of correr is absolutely essential for anyone striving for fluency in the Portuguese language.

O novo sistema operativo consegue correr aplicações muito mais pesadas.

Vou correr até ao supermercado antes que feche.

While the verb correr is a regular -er verb and generally straightforward to conjugate, learners of Portuguese frequently encounter pitfalls when applying it in various contexts. One of the most common mistakes arises from direct translation from English, particularly regarding idiomatic expressions. For instance, in English, one might say 'I am running a business.' A direct translation to Portuguese would be 'Eu estou a correr um negócio,' which sounds entirely unnatural and incorrect to a native speaker. Instead, Portuguese uses verbs like gerir, administrar, or dirigir for managing a business.

Ele tenta correr todos os dias, mas não gere a empresa sozinho.

Another frequent error involves the expression 'to run out of something.' An English speaker might try to say 'Eu corri fora de leite' to mean 'I ran out of milk.' This is nonsensical in Portuguese. The correct expression involves the verb acabar (to finish) or ficar sem (to end up without). You should say 'O leite acabou' or 'Fiquei sem leite.'

False Friends: Never use 'correr' to translate the English phrasal verb 'to run out of'.

Pronunciation also presents a significant hurdle. The double 'rr' in correr requires a strong, trilled or guttural sound, depending on the regional dialect (European vs. Brazilian Portuguese). Many learners pronounce it with a soft 'r', making it sound like a completely different word or simply marking them clearly as foreigners.

É preciso saber pronunciar bem para correr sem ser mal interpretado.

Furthermore, confusion often occurs when using correr to describe how an event went. Learners sometimes use the verb ir (to go) instead of correr, saying 'A festa foi bem' instead of the more natural 'A festa correu bem.' While 'foi bem' can be understood, 'correu bem' is the idiomatic standard for expressing that an event proceeded successfully.

Event Evaluation: Always default to 'correr bem/mal' when assessing the outcome of a situation or event.

Another subtle mistake is the misuse of prepositions. When saying 'to run in the marathon,' learners might say 'correr na maratona,' which is correct. However, when saying 'to run a race,' the direct object is used without a preposition: 'correr uma corrida.' Mixing these up can sound slightly awkward.

Ele decidiu correr a maratona de Lisboa este ano.

Additionally, learners sometimes forget that correr can be used for liquids and machinery. They might search for complex verbs to describe a running engine or flowing water, ignoring the simplicity of correr. 'O motor está a correr' (The engine is running) is perfectly valid in some contexts, though 'funcionar' is also common.

Machine Operation: While 'correr' can be used for software, physical machines usually 'funcionam'.

Finally, the subjunctive mood often trips up intermediate learners. When wishing someone well, the phrase is 'Espero que tudo corra bem' (I hope everything goes well), using the present subjunctive corra. Many mistakenly use the present indicative corre, saying 'Espero que tudo corre bem,' which is grammatically incorrect. Mastering these nuances requires practice, attentive listening to native speakers, and a willingness to move beyond direct translations from English.

Desejo que a tua viagem possa correr sem qualquer problema.

Se não te despachares, vais ter de correr muito.

While correr is the most direct translation for 'to run', the Portuguese language offers a rich tapestry of synonyms and alternative verbs that convey specific nuances of speed, intention, and context. Understanding these alternatives allows learners to express themselves with greater precision and stylistic variety. When the focus is on extreme speed or fleeing, the verb fugir (to flee, to escape) is often more appropriate than correr. If a thief is running away from the police, 'O ladrão está a fugir' paints a more accurate picture of evasion than simply 'está a correr'.

Em vez de correr, ele decidiu enfrentar os seus medos.

For a light, leisurely run or jog, the borrowed English word fazer jogging is commonly used, especially in urban fitness contexts. However, the native verb trotar (to trot) or the noun form dar uma corridinha (to go for a little run) are excellent alternatives that convey a relaxed pace.

Jogging Alternatives: Use 'dar uma corridinha' to sound like a native when talking about a casual workout.

If the running involves rushing because one is late or in a hurry, the reflexive verb despachar-se (to hurry up) or the phrase ter pressa (to be in a hurry) are frequently employed. Instead of saying 'Tenho de correr' (I have to run), you might say 'Tenho de me despachar' (I have to hurry).

Não precisas de correr, ainda temos muito tempo.

In the context of liquids flowing, while correr is perfectly acceptable, the verb fluir (to flow) offers a more poetic or technical alternative. 'O rio flui para o mar' (The river flows to the sea) sounds slightly more elevated than 'O rio corre para o mar'. When discussing how an event progressed, the verb decorrer is a formal synonym for correr. 'A conferência decorreu sem incidentes' (The conference proceeded without incidents) is standard in journalism and formal reports, whereas 'A conferência correu bem' is preferred in conversation.

Formal Events: 'Decorrer' is the perfect substitute for 'correr' when writing formal reports or academic papers.

For the operation of machinery or systems, funcionar (to function, to work) is almost always a better choice than correr, unless referring specifically to software execution. 'O motor está a funcionar' is the standard way to say the engine is running.

O programa vai correr melhor se reiniciares o computador.

Another interesting alternative is the verb disparar (to shoot off, to sprint suddenly). In a sports context, if an athlete suddenly accelerates, you might say 'Ele disparou para a meta' (He sprinted for the finish line), which is much more dynamic than just correr. Finally, the verb apressar-se (to hasten oneself) is a formal way to describe moving quickly or doing something with urgency. 'Ele apressou-se a terminar o trabalho' (He hastened to finish the work). By integrating these alternatives into your vocabulary, you avoid repetitive use of correr and demonstrate a deeper, more nuanced command of the Portuguese language.

Urgency: 'Apressar-se' conveys the internal feeling of urgency, while 'correr' describes the physical action.

Vou correr o risco e investir neste novo projeto.

As lágrimas começaram a correr pelo seu rosto.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"O evento decorreu com a máxima eficiência."

Neutral

"A reunião correu muito bem."

Informal

"Tive de dar uma corrida porque estava bué atrasado."

Child friendly

"Vamos correr no parque de diversões!"

Slang

"Baza, temos de correr com isto!"

Fun Fact

The word 'currículo' (curriculum) shares the same Latin root 'currere', literally meaning a 'running' or a 'course' of one's life or studies.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /kuˈʁeɾ/

US /koˈhe(ʁ)/

co-RRER (stress on the last syllable)

Rhymes With

morrer ocorrer socorrer percorrer decorrer escorrer incorrer recorrer

Common Errors

Pronouncing the 'rr' as a soft tapped 'r', which sounds like 'corer' (not a word).
Pronouncing the 'o' as an open 'aw' sound instead of a closed 'oo' sound in European Portuguese.
Stressing the first syllable instead of the last.
Failing to drop or soften the final 'r' in casual Brazilian speech.
Confusing the guttural 'rr' with a Spanish rolled 'rr'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easily recognizable contextually.

Writing 3/5

Requires correct conjugation and preposition use.

Speaking 4/5

Pronunciation of 'rr' is challenging for non-natives.

Listening 3/5

Fast speech can obscure the final 'r'.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

ir andar bem mal muito

Learn Next

fugir decorrer apressar funcionar gerir

Advanced

incorrer percorrer escorrer socorrer fluir

Grammar to Know

Regular -ER Verb Conjugation

Eu corro, tu corres, ele corre, nós corremos, eles correm.

Present Subjunctive Formation

Que eu corra, que tu corras, que ele corra...

Prepositions of Motion

Correr PARA (destination), Correr POR (through/for).

Adverbs of Manner

Correr BEM, correr MAL, correr RÁPIDO.

Continuous Aspect

Estar A correr (Portugal) vs. Estar correndo (Brazil).

Examples by Level

Eu corro no parque.

I run in the park.

Present tense, first person singular 'eu corro'.

Ela corre muito rápido.

She runs very fast.

Third person singular 'corre' with adverb 'rápido'.

Nós corremos todos os dias.

We run every day.

First person plural 'corremos'.

O cão corre atrás da bola.

The dog runs after the ball.

Using 'atrás de' to mean 'after'.

Tu corres na praia?

Do you run on the beach?

Question form using second person singular 'tu corres'.

Eles não correm hoje.

They do not run today.

Negative sentence with 'não' before the verb.

O menino corre para a escola.

The boy runs to school.

Preposition 'para' indicating destination.

Eu gosto de correr.

I like to run.

Infinitive form 'correr' after the verb 'gostar de'.

Ontem, eu corri cinco quilómetros.

Yesterday, I ran five kilometers.

Pretérito Perfeito (simple past) 'corri'.

A festa correu muito bem.

The party went very well.

Idiomatic use meaning 'to go/proceed' in the past tense.

Quando era criança, corria muito.

When I was a child, I used to run a lot.

Pretérito Imperfeito (past continuous) 'corria'.

Nós vamos correr amanhã de manhã.

We are going to run tomorrow morning.

Immediate future using 'ir + infinitive'.

O teste não correu bem.

The test did not go well.

Negative evaluation of an event.

Eles correram para apanhar o autocarro.

They ran to catch the bus.

Past tense plural 'correram'.

A água está a correr na torneira.

The water is running in the tap.

Present continuous 'estar a + infinitive'.

Tens de correr mais rápido!

You have to run faster!

Obligation using 'ter de + infinitive'.

Espero que a reunião corra bem.

I hope the meeting goes well.

Present subjunctive 'corra' after 'espero que'.

Se eu tivesse tempo, correria mais.

If I had time, I would run more.

Conditional tense 'correria'.

O tempo corre tão depressa!

Time runs so fast!

Metaphorical use for time passing.

Eles estão a correr o risco de perder tudo.

They are running the risk of losing everything.

Idiomatic expression 'correr o risco'.

Já corri duas maratonas este ano.

I have already run two marathons this year.

Pretérito Perfeito used for completed actions in a time frame.

O programa corre em qualquer computador.

The program runs on any computer.

Technological context for software execution.

Não deixes a água correr à toa.

Do not let the water run uselessly.

Imperative negative with the infinitive.

Tivemos de correr atrás do prejuízo.

We had to make up for lost time/mistakes.

Common idiom 'correr atrás do prejuízo'.

Embora tenha corrido mal, aprendi muito.

Although it went badly, I learned a lot.

Pretérito Perfeito Composto do Subjuntivo 'tenha corrido'.

O boato correu a cidade inteira num dia.

The rumor ran through the whole city in one day.

Metaphorical use for the spread of information.

É fundamental corrermos todos os dias para manter a forma.

It is fundamental that we run every day to keep fit.

Personal infinitive 'corrermos'.

As lágrimas corriam-lhe pelo rosto.

Tears were running down his/her face.

Use of reflexive pronoun for possession 'corriam-lhe'.

Tudo correrá pelo melhor, não te preocupes.

Everything will go for the best, do not worry.

Future indicative 'correrá'.

Ele deixou a imaginação correr solta.

He let his imagination run wild.

Idiomatic expression 'correr solta'.

O contrato corre o risco de ser cancelado.

The contract runs the risk of being canceled.

Formal business context using 'correr o risco'.

Corria o ano de 1999 quando nos conhecemos.

It was the year 1999 when we met.

Literary/formal way to state the year.

O projeto decorreu sem que houvesse qualquer sobressalto.

The project proceeded without any hiccups.

Using the formal synonym 'decorrer' with complex subjunctive.

Fez-me o sangue correr frio ouvir aquela notícia.

It made my blood run cold to hear that news.

Advanced idiom for extreme fear or shock.

A discussão correu o risco de resvalar para o insulto.

The argument ran the risk of slipping into insult.

Sophisticated vocabulary 'resvalar' combined with 'correr'.

Deixemos as coisas correrem o seu curso natural.

Let us let things run their natural course.

Philosophical/abstract usage with personal infinitive.

Correm rumores de que a empresa vai declarar falência.

Rumors are running that the company will declare bankruptcy.

Impersonal use 'correm rumores'.

A tinta correu no papel, arruinando a pintura.

The ink ran on the paper, ruining the painting.

Specific physical context for liquids/ink.

Tinha corrido tudo tão bem até àquele momento fatídico.

Everything had gone so well until that fateful moment.

Pretérito Mais-que-perfeito Composto 'tinha corrido'.

Ele correu capelinhas para conseguir o financiamento.

He went from pillar to post to get the funding.

Highly specific cultural idiom 'correr capelinhas'.

A narrativa corre com uma fluidez invejável.

The narrative runs with an enviable fluidity.

Literary critique usage.

Incorreu num erro crasso ao subestimar o adversário.

He ran into a gross error by underestimating the opponent.

Using the derivative 'incorrer' for making mistakes.

O tempo, esse rio inexorável, corre para o abismo.

Time, that inexorable river, runs towards the abyss.

Highly poetic and philosophical imagery.

A sua fama corre parelhas com a sua arrogância.

His fame runs parallel with his arrogance.

Advanced idiom 'correr parelhas' (to be equal/parallel).

Deixou-se correr ao sabor da correnteza da vida.

He let himself run at the mercy of life's current.

Reflexive poetic usage.

Ainda que a situação corresse de feição, ele manteria a cautela.

Even if the situation ran favorably, he would maintain caution.

Imperfect subjunctive with formal idiom 'correr de feição'.

Correu-se a cortina sobre mais um escândalo político.

The curtain was run (drawn) over yet another political scandal.

Passive voice 'correu-se' used metaphorically.

O sangue que lhe corre nas veias é de pura estirpe.

The blood that runs in his veins is of pure lineage.

Classic literary expression regarding ancestry.

Common Collocations

correr bem

correr mal

correr o risco

deixar correr

correr mundo

correr atrás

fazer correr

correr perigo

correr a maratona

água a correr

Common Phrases

Como correu?

— How did it go? Used to ask about the outcome of an event.

Como correu a tua entrevista de emprego?

Tudo a correr bem?

— Is everything going well? A common greeting or check-in.

Olá, João! Tudo a correr bem contigo?

Tenho de correr.

— I have to run/hurry. Used when someone is late.

Desculpa, não posso falar agora, tenho de correr.

Correu tudo pelo melhor.

— Everything went for the best. A positive evaluation.

Apesar dos problemas, correu tudo pelo melhor.

Deixar a água correr.

— To let the water run. Usually a warning not to waste water.

Não deves deixar a água correr enquanto te ensaboas.

O tempo corre.

— Time flies. Acknowledging that time is passing quickly.

O tempo corre quando estamos de férias.

Correr contra o tempo.

— To race against time. Trying to finish something before a deadline.

Estamos a correr contra o tempo para entregar o projeto.

Correr a cortina.

— To draw the curtain. Literal or metaphorical closing.

Vou correr a cortina porque está muito sol.

Correr boatos.

— Rumors are spreading.

Correm boatos de que o diretor vai sair.

Correr a voz.

— Word spreads.

Correu a voz de que a festa foi cancelada.

Often Confused With

Correr vs Fugir

Fugir means to flee or escape from danger, while correr is just the physical act of running.

Correr vs Andar

Andar means to walk. Beginners sometimes mix up the speeds.

Correr vs Gerir

Gerir means to manage. English speakers confuse this because 'run' means manage in English.

Idioms & Expressions

"Correr atrás do prejuízo"

— To try to make up for lost time, a mistake, or a financial loss.

Depois de reprovar no primeiro teste, teve de correr atrás do prejuízo.

Informal

"Fazer correr tinta"

— To cause a lot of written discussion or controversy in the press.

O escândalo político fez correr muita tinta nos jornais.

Neutral

"Correr por gosto não cansa"

— When you do something you love, it doesn't feel like hard work.

Trabalhei doze horas hoje, mas quem corre por gosto não cansa.

Proverb

"Deixar correr o marfim"

— To let things happen naturally without interfering; to go with the flow.

Não te preocupes com isso agora, deixa correr o marfim.

Informal

"Correr capelinhas"

— To go from place to place seeking help, usually unsuccessfully.

Tive de correr capelinhas para conseguir este documento.

Informal

"Correr à solta"

— To run wild, without control or restraint.

A imaginação das crianças estava a correr à solta.

Neutral

"Correr parelhas"

— To be equal to or match something else perfectly.

A sua inteligência corre parelhas com a sua bondade.

Formal

"Fazer o sangue correr frio"

— To terrify someone; to make one's blood run cold.

O grito na noite fez-me o sangue correr frio.

Literary

"Correr a sete pés"

— To run away very fast out of fear.

Quando viu o cão, fugiu a correr a sete pés.

Informal

"Correr a seca e a Meca"

— To travel everywhere, searching high and low.

Corri a seca e a Meca para encontrar este livro.

Informal

Easily Confused

Correr vs Ocorrer

Looks and sounds similar.

Ocorrer means 'to occur' or 'to happen', not to run.

Isso não me ocorreu.

Correr vs Concorrer

Shares the root.

Concorrer means 'to compete' or 'to apply for'.

Vou concorrer à vaga.

Correr vs Percorrer

Shares the root.

Percorrer means 'to travel through' or 'to cover a distance'.

Vou percorrer o país.

Correr vs Escorrer

Shares the root.

Escorrer means 'to drain' or 'to drip'.

Deixa a massa escorrer.

Correr vs Socorrer

Shares the root.

Socorrer means 'to help' or 'to rescue'.

O médico foi socorrer a vítima.

Sentence Patterns

[Subject] + correr + [Location]

Eu corro no parque.

[Event] + correr + bem/mal

A festa correu bem.

Espero que + [Event] + corra + bem

Espero que o teste corra bem.

[Subject] + correr o risco de + [Infinitive]

Ele corre o risco de perder.

[Subject] + ter de + correr atrás do prejuízo

Temos de correr atrás do prejuízo.

[Liquid] + correr + [Preposition] + [Location]

A água corre pela torneira.

Deixar + [Object] + correr o seu curso

Vamos deixar a situação correr o seu curso.

[Subject] + correr parelhas com + [Object]

A sua ambição corre parelhas com o seu talento.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Top 100 most used verbs in Portuguese.

Common Mistakes

Eu corro um negócio. → Eu giro um negócio.
Direct translation error. 'Correr' is not used for managing or operating a business in Portuguese.
A festa foi bem. → A festa correu bem.
While 'foi bem' is understandable, 'correu bem' is the idiomatic and natural way to say an event went well.
Eu corri fora de leite. → Fiquei sem leite.
Direct translation of the English phrasal verb 'run out of'. Portuguese uses 'ficar sem' or 'acabar'.
Espero que tudo corre bem. → Espero que tudo corra bem.
Failing to use the subjunctive mood after an expression of hope. 'Corre' is indicative; 'corra' is subjunctive.
Ele está a fugir no parque para fazer exercício. → Ele está a correr no parque para fazer exercício.
Confusing 'fugir' (to escape/flee) with 'correr' (to run for exercise).

Tips

Subjunctive Trigger

Always use the subjunctive form 'corra' after phrases like 'espero que' or 'tomara que'.

Master the 'RR'

Spend time practicing the guttural or aspirated 'rr' sound. It is crucial for being understood.

Event Evaluation

Memorize 'correu bem' and 'correu mal'. You will use these phrases almost every day.

No Business Running

Never use 'correr' for managing a company. Use 'gerir' instead.

Correr atrás

Use 'correr atrás' to sound like a native when talking about pursuing goals or fixing mistakes.

Correr no vs. para

Use 'no/na' for running IN a place, and 'para' for running TO a place.

Time Flies

Use 'o tempo corre' to express that time is passing very quickly.

Decorrer for Formal

In a formal essay or presentation, swap 'correr' for 'decorrer' when talking about events.

Silent R in Brazil

If listening to Brazilians, be prepared for the final 'r' in 'correr' to be completely silent.

Liquid Flow

Don't be afraid to use 'correr' for rivers, tears, and tap water. It is the correct verb.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine a CORE (cor) of a person running (rer) very fast. The core of the issue is how well the event will RUN (correr bem).

Visual Association

Visualize a runner on a track. Then, visualize a river flowing. Finally, visualize a green checkmark over a party. Link all three images to the sound 'co-RRER'.

Word Web

correr rápido festa bem/mal água tempo risco maratona

Challenge

Next time you finish an activity, ask yourself in Portuguese: 'Como correu?' and answer with 'Correu bem' or 'Correu mal'.

Word Origin

Derived from the Latin verb 'currere', which means to run, move quickly, or hasten. It has maintained its core meaning while expanding metaphorically over centuries.

Original meaning: To move rapidly on foot.

Indo-European > Italic > Romance > Western Romance > Ibero-Romance > Portuguese

Cultural Context

No specific cultural sensitivities, but be aware that 'correr com alguém' can mean to forcefully kick someone out of a place, which is aggressive.

English speakers use 'run' for managing a business ('run a company'). Portuguese speakers NEVER use 'correr' for this; they use 'gerir' or 'administrar'.

The famous Portuguese proverb 'Quem corre por gosto não cansa'. The song 'Correr o Risco' by various Portuguese artists. The annual 'Corrida de São Silvestre', a famous New Year's Eve run in Lisbon and São Paulo.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Sports and Fitness

fazer uma corrida
correr a maratona
sapatilhas de correr
pista de corrida

Evaluating Events

correu bem
correu mal
como correu?
espero que corra bem

Time Management

o tempo corre
correr contra o tempo
tenho de correr
correr atrás do prejuízo

Liquids and Nature

água a correr
deixar correr a água
o rio corre
lágrimas a correr

Risk and Danger

correr o risco
correr perigo
fugir a correr
correr pela vida

Conversation Starters

"Costumas correr para manter a forma?"

"Como correu o teu fim de semana?"

"Achas que o tempo corre mais rápido hoje em dia?"

"Já alguma vez tiveste de correr para apanhar um avião?"

"Como correu a tua última viagem?"

Journal Prompts

Escreve sobre uma vez em que tiveste de correr muito rápido.

Descreve um evento recente na tua vida e explica como correu.

O que significa para ti a expressão 'correr atrás dos teus sonhos'?

Preferes andar ou correr? Porquê?

Escreve sobre uma situação em que decidiste 'correr o risco'.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, this is a direct translation error from English. In Portuguese, you must use verbs like 'gerir', 'administrar', or 'dirigir' to talk about managing a business. 'Correr' is strictly for physical movement, events, liquids, or time.

You can use the verb correr! A very natural and common way to ask this is 'Como correu o teu dia?' (How did your day go?). The answer would be 'Correu bem' (It went well) or 'Correu mal' (It went badly).

'Correr' simply means to move fast on your feet. 'Fugir' specifically means to run away from something, to escape, or to flee. If you are jogging for exercise, you use 'correr'. If you are running from a bear, you use 'fugir'.

This phrase uses the present subjunctive mood ('corra'). In Portuguese, expressions of hope, wish, or desire (like 'espero que' - I hope that) trigger the subjunctive mood because the outcome is uncertain.

No. In European Portuguese, the 'rr' is usually a guttural sound made in the back of the throat, similar to the French 'r'. In Brazilian Portuguese, it sounds much more like the English 'h' in 'hello'.

Sometimes, but 'funcionar' is much better. You might hear 'o programa está a correr' for computer software, but for a car engine, you should say 'o motor está a funcionar'.

It is an idiom that translates directly to 'run the risk'. It means to take a chance or do something that might have a negative consequence. Example: 'Não quero correr o risco de falhar'.

Do not use 'correr'. You should say 'Fiquei sem tempo' (I ended up without time) or 'O tempo acabou' (The time finished).

For completed actions in the past (Pretérito Perfeito), it is: eu corri, tu correste, ele correu, nós corremos, eles correram. For ongoing past habits (Imperfeito), it is: eu corria, tu corrias, ele corria, nós corríamos, eles corriam.

Yes! Just like in English, you can say the water is running. 'A água está a correr' or 'Deixaste a torneira a correr' are perfectly natural Portuguese sentences.

Test Yourself 200 questions

writing

Write a simple sentence saying you run in the park.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Uses first person singular present tense and preposition 'no'.