When we say “I’m running late“, it means we’re behind schedule or not on time. It’s another way of saying “I’m not going to be on time” or “I’m delayed”.
Here are two examples in sentences:
Example 1:
Even though he left his house early, traffic was so bad that he called his friend to say, “I’m running late“.
Example 2:
Rachel quickly grabbed her bag and ran out the door, shouting to her roommates, “I’m running late for my class!”
Now, let’s see two examples in a conversation:
Example 3:
Mike: Hey, Emma, are you on your way?
Emma: Yes, Mike, but I’m running late. The train was delayed.
Example 4:
Sarah: Lisa, aren’t you supposed to be at your meeting now?
Lisa: Yes, Sarah, but I’m running late. I can’t find my car keys!
So, when you say, “I’m running late,” you’re letting others know that you won’t arrive at the expected time and might be delayed for some reason. It’s a polite way of notifying someone about your delay.