Short Run – Meaning and Examples
Have you ever started a new habit, knowing you would only do it for a few weeks? Or perhaps you made a temporary plan for a busy time? When we talk about something that will last for a limited or brief period, we call it the short run. This phrase is useful for making temporary plans and discussing immediate consequences.
What Does “Short Run” Mean?
The phrase “short run” means a limited period of time in the immediate future. It refers to temporary conditions or immediate results, in contrast to the “long run,” which refers to a distant or indefinite future. Think of it like a quick sprint versus a long marathon. The short run is the quick sprint.
When to Use It
You can use short run when discussing temporary situations, especially in business, finance, or planning.
- Business: Companies often worry about short run costs when launching a new product.
- Planning: In the short run, we will use this small office until the larger one is ready.
- Personal Habits: Changing your diet is difficult in the short run, but worth it later.
- Consequences: Don’t worry about this small mistake; it won’t matter in the short run.
This phrase is neutral to formal and is used frequently in planning and analysis.
Example Sentences
- In the short run, we need to focus only on finishing the main project.
- The new system is saving time, but the cost was high in the short run.
- They needed to hire extra staff in the short run to handle the rush season.
- Moving to the city was exciting, though financially difficult in the short run.
Mini Dialogue
Alex: “This job is stressful, and the pay is low.”
Jamie: “I know, but stick with it. It’s just temporary in the short run.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not confuse the figurative phrase “short run” (time) with a literal short race or a quick trip.
❌ Don’t: “I need to take a short run to the store for milk.” (This is incorrect. Use “quick trip” or “quick walk.”)
✅ Do: “Higher prices will solve the inventory problem in the short run.” (This means the problem will be solved temporarily.)
Practice Tip
Think of something difficult you are doing right now (like studying for a test). Write one sentence assuring yourself that the effort is only necessary in the short run.
Final Note
Using the phrase short run helps you separate temporary problems from permanent goals. Keep practicing, and you will use this phrase easily when discussing future plans!
