1 C1 formal
to happen or be scheduled before another event or item
"The opening remarks will run before the main presentation."
inseparable
run before
C1 formal inseparable transitive
to happen or be placed earlier than something else, especially in time or procedure
In plain English
to come earlier than something else
What does "run before" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Usage tip
Rare as a phrasal verb. Most often found in formal or technical contexts about schedules, procedures, or sequence.
Words that pair with "run before"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
schedule deadline hearing programme item event
How to conjugate "run before"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
run before
I/you/we/they
3rd person
runs before
he/she/it
Past simple
ran before
yesterday
Past participle
run before
have + pp
-ing form
running before
continuous
Hear "run before" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "run before" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "run before"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
Keep exploring
Jump to every phrasal verb built on the same verb, particle, or level.