Conduct vs I have a business to run

When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.

Conduct

Top 2,000 (common)B2verb

I have a business to run

Top 2,000 (common)
 ConductI have a business to run
Pronunciation🇬🇧 /["/kənˈdʌkt/","/kənˈdʌkts/","/kənˈdʌktɪd/","/kənˈdʌktɪŋ/"]/🇺🇸 /["/kənˈdʌkt/","/kənˈdʌkts/","/kənˈdʌktɪd/","/kənˈdʌktɪŋ/"]/🇬🇧 //aɪ hæv ə ˈbɪznəs tə rʌn//🇺🇸 //aɪ hæv ə ˈbɪznɪs tə rʌn//
MeaningTo lead or manage something, like a project or an activity.I need to manage a company or organization.
ExampleThe scientist will conduct an experiment to test the hypothesis.I have a business to run, so I can't join you today.
RegisterNeutralNeutral
How commonTop 2,000 (common)Top 2,000 (common)
CEFR levelB2-
Part of speechverb
Collocationsindependently, separately, jointly, honourably/​honorably, well, with dignity, as, in, wellrun a company, run an operation, run a franchise
Antonymsneglect, abandon-
Common mistakesConfused with 'conduct' as a noun vs. verb., Incorrectly using it without an object, e.g., 'conduct a meeting' instead of just 'conduct'., Mixing up 'conduct' with similar verbs like 'perform' or 'carry out'.Using 'to run' with a noun instead of a verb., Confusing 'run' with 'run away' in this context., Saying 'have a business for running' instead of 'to run'.
Usage notesUse ‘conduct’ in formal contexts, such as business or research. It is not suitable for casual conversations or informal writing.Used when discussing responsibilities related to managing a business. Avoid in casual conversations.

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I have a business to run

Frequently asked questions: Conduct vs I have a business to run

What's the difference between Conduct and I have a business to run?

Conduct: To lead or manage something, like a project or an activity. I have a business to run: I need to manage a company or organization.

Can you show an example of each?

Conduct: The scientist will conduct an experiment to test the hypothesis. I have a business to run: I have a business to run, so I can't join you today.

Can I use Conduct and I have a business to run interchangeably?

Not always. Conduct and I have a business to run are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.

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