Quick Definition
Run Into — To meet someone by chance; to encounter a problem.
Meanings of Run Into
| Meaning | Example Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Meet by chance | I ran into an old school friend at the supermarket. | I met them unexpectedly. |
| Encounter a problem | The project ran into serious delays. | It encountered delays. |
Example Sentences
| Sentence | Meaning in Context |
|---|---|
| I ran into an old school friend at the supermarket. | I met them unexpectedly. |
| The project ran into serious delays. | It encountered delays. |
| "Don't worry -- I'll run into it." | Using it in a short reassurance. |
| She decided to run into the whole situation. | Applying the phrasal verb in context. |
Grammar Notes
Separability & Transitivity
Type: inseparable | Transitivity: transitive
Inseparable. Object always follows 'into': run into problems. Cannot split the verb.
How to Use Run Into
Neutral to informal. Common in both conversation and writing.
| Register | Example / Notes |
|---|---|
| Informal / Spoken | I ran into an old school friend at the supermarket. |
| Neutral / Written | Consider context; single-word synonyms may suit formal writing. |
Similar Phrasal Verbs
Practise Run Into
Practice English Phrasal Verbs
Use these exercises to master phrasal verbs in context:
Frequently Asked Questions about Run Into
What does "Run Into" mean?
"Run Into" means: To meet someone by chance; to encounter a problem. It is a transitive phrasal verb rated CEFR B1.
Is "Run Into" separable or inseparable?
"Run Into" is inseparable. Inseparable. Object always follows 'into': run into problems. Cannot split the verb.
How do I use "Run Into" in a sentence?
I ran into an old school friend at the supermarket. -- in this example, 'Run Into' means i met them unexpectedly.
What is the register of "Run Into"?
Neutral to informal. Common in both conversation and writing.
What CEFR level is "Run Into"?
"Run Into" is typically taught at CEFR B1 — Intermediate level. It appears frequently in neutral to informal contexts.
What is the difference between "Run Into" and similar phrasal verbs?
"Run Into" specifically means: To meet someone by chance; to encounter a problem. Compare with similar verbs in the 'Similar Phrasal Verbs' section below for nuanced differences.
Can "Run Into" be used formally?
Neutral to informal. Common in both conversation and writing. When writing formally, consider whether a single-word synonym might be more appropriate for the context.
Does "Run Into" take an object?
"Run Into" is transitive. Inseparable. Object always follows 'into': run into problems. Cannot split the verb.
How can I practise "Run Into"?
Use LexFizz's Find the Match and Flip Tiles exercises to practise 'Run Into' in context. Seeing it in multiple sentences helps the meaning stick.
Is "Run Into" used in British or American English?
"Run Into" is used in both British and American English, though register and frequency may vary. Neutral to informal. Common in both conversation and writing.