Chinese Grammar Reference logo

    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'to run' with 跑 (pǎo)

    Actions & Events
    Direction & Movement

    Structure

    Subject + 跑

    Explanation

    The verb 跑 (pǎo) means 'to run' and is one of the most basic movement verbs in Chinese. It can describe literal running or figuratively mean 'to flee' or 'to make a trip.' It often combines with directional complements like 跑过来 (run over here) or 跑掉 (run away).

    Examples

    • 他每天早上都会去公园跑步。

      tā měi tiān zǎoshang dōu huì qù gōngyuán pǎobù.

      He goes jogging in the park every morning.

    • 你跑那么快，我根本追不上你。

      nǐ pǎo nàme kuài, wǒ gēnběn zhuī bù shàng nǐ.

      You run so fast; I can't catch up with you at all.

    • 小狗一看到主人就跑过来了。

      xiǎo gǒu yí kàn dào zhǔrén jiù pǎo guòlái le.

      The puppy ran over as soon as it saw its owner.

    Similar Grammar

    Often Confused With

    Expressing 'to run' with 跑 (pǎo) | Chinese Grammar