I ran into someone...

by Pranav
(India)

Pranave asked me what "to run into someone" means" and it is a great question this is very common.

First of all it is a phrasal verb, to run into which is followed by either "something" or "someone".

In this case you are running into someone and this is usually not literal. It just means that you meet someone unexpectedly somewhere.

For example, I ran into my aunt while I was out shopping means that I saw my aunt while I was out shopping. It usually means that you stopped and spoke to one another was well.

More examples :

I would hate to run into my old boyfriend in the street.

I always seem to run into my boss when I am out having a coffee.

If you live in a small town you will run into people frequently.

I hope that helps you understand the meaning and also how to use it. - Diana