running gear
MediumTechnical, Informal
Definition
Meaning
The essential parts of a vehicle that enable it to move, including wheels, axles, suspension, and transmission.
In informal use, clothing or equipment designed for running or athletic activity. In machinery, the moving parts of a device or system that allow it to operate.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Primarily a compound noun. In transport/automotive contexts, it is a fixed technical term. The athletic sense is a more recent informal extension where 'gear' takes its 'clothing/equipment' meaning.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Both dialects use the term in automotive contexts identically. The athletic/clothing sense may be slightly more common in American marketing/lay usage.
Connotations
In both, the automotive sense is technical and precise. The athletic sense is casual and consumer-oriented.
Frequency
Low frequency in general conversation, but standard within specific technical fields like automotive repair, rail transport, and military logistics.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
The [VEHICLE]'s running gear was inspected.They replaced the running gear.running gear for [PURPOSE]Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[not an idiomatic phrase itself]”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Used in logistics, transport, and automotive sales/repair contexts.
Academic
Rare; found in engineering or transport history texts.
Everyday
Uncommon in casual talk unless discussing car repairs or specific sports equipment.
Technical
Standard term in mechanical engineering, automotive manuals, and railway maintenance.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- N/A - Compound noun.
American English
- N/A - Compound noun.
adverb
British English
- N/A - Compound noun.
American English
- N/A - Compound noun.
adjective
British English
- N/A - Compound noun.
American English
- N/A - Compound noun.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- The lorry's running gear was very strong.
- She bought new running gear for the marathon.
- After the accident, the mechanic had to check the car's running gear.
- His favourite running gear is made from lightweight material.
- The design prioritises a robust running gear capable of handling rough terrain.
- Investing in high-quality running gear can improve performance and comfort.
- The railway company is retrofitting its entire fleet with new, more efficient running gear.
- The military vehicle's running gear was specially modified for desert operations.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a car 'running' down the road. The 'gear' that makes that 'running' possible (wheels, axles) is the running gear.
Conceptual Metaphor
FOUNDATION FOR MOVEMENT (The parts are the essential foundation that enables motion, much like legs are for a person).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid translating literally as 'бегущее снаряжение'. For vehicles, use 'ходовая часть'. For athletic clothes, use 'экипировка для бега'.
Common Mistakes
- Using it to mean 'operating a piece of gear' (gerund + noun). Confusing it with 'running shoes' only in the athletic sense.
Practice
Quiz
In which context would 'running gear' LEAST likely be used?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. While its primary and most specific meaning is vehicular, it is also used informally for athletic clothing and equipment for running.
No. The engine is the power source. Running gear refers to the components that transfer that power into motion and support the vehicle (wheels, axles, suspension, etc.).
Yes, it is applicable. A bicycle's running gear would include the wheels, tyres, chain, gears, pedals, and brakes—the parts that make it roll and are subject to wear.
It is formal and technical in engineering/automotive contexts. It becomes informal when referring to athletic apparel.