Running or runny?

I’ve got a running nose.

or

 I’ve got a runny nose.

 

Which one is correct?  Or are they both right?

Running /ˈrʌn.ɪŋ/ and runny /ˈrʌn.i/ sound very similar, but only one is considered correct and natural when using English.  Do you know which one it is?

                

It is ‘runny’.

When your nose is producing more mucus than usual, you can say:

“I’ve got a runny nose.”

You can also say:

“My nose is running.”

 

Either of these sentences is natural for native English speakers to say.

Unfortunately, it is not usual to say “I’ve got a running nose” and the mental image it creates is one in which your nose has jumped off your face…and is running away!

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If this post has been helpful, you might consider studying with S. and L. English Lessons.  Get in contact today to organise a trial lesson and let’s continue the conversation.