1 A2 neutral
to return quickly to a place by running or moving fast
"I need to run back to the shop because I forgot the milk."
inseparable
run back
A2 neutral inseparable intransitive
to go back quickly to a place
In plain English
to go back fast
What does "run back" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Usage tip
Usually literal. Can also be used for replaying audio or video in some contexts, but that use is less central.
Words that pair with "run back"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
home inside shop car upstairs office
How to conjugate "run back"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
run back
I/you/we/they
3rd person
runs back
he/she/it
Past simple
ran back
yesterday
Past participle
run back
have + pp
-ing form
running back
continuous
Hear "run back" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "run back" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "run back"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
dash back go back quickly hurry back return
Keep exploring
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