corriendo
“corriendo” means “running” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
running, flowing
📝 In Action
Ahora mismo estamos corriendo hacia la meta.
A1Right now, we are running toward the finish line.
El agua del río estuvo corriendo muy rápido después de la lluvia.
B1The river water was flowing very fast after the rain.
quickly
Also: at a run
📝 In Action
El mensajero llegó corriendo para entregar el paquete a tiempo.
B1The messenger arrived quickly (or, running) to deliver the package on time.
Olvidé mi cartera y tuve que volver corriendo.
B1I forgot my wallet and had to rush back (literally: return running).
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: corriendo
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'corriendo' to mean 'in a rush' rather than part of a continuous action?
📚 More Resources
📚 Etymology▼
The word *corriendo* is the gerund form of the Spanish verb *correr* (to run). *Correr* ultimately comes from the Latin verb *currere*, meaning 'to run' or 'to flow.' The '-iendo' ending is the standard pattern for forming the continuous action form of -er and -ir verbs.
First recorded: Evolved from Old Spanish forms of *correr*.
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does 'corriendo' always mean physical running?
No. While its main meaning is physical running, it can also refer to liquids 'flowing' (*El agua está corriendo*) or, more figuratively, time 'running out' (*El tiempo está corriendo*).
Is 'corriendo' the same as 'rápido'?
They are similar when describing speed, but *corriendo* is more descriptive. *Rápido* is a direct adjective/adverb ('fast'). *Corriendo* usually implies a state of being rushed or moving on foot.