Run into
To encounter difficulties or problems
Common pattern: run into + problem (noun)
run into trouble
run into a problem
run into difficulty
run into an issue
run into obstacles
The construction project ran into serious funding issues halfway through. ✅ (Correct)
The construction project ran serious funding issues into halfway through. ❌ (Incorrect — inseparable, always stays together)
To collide with something
Common pattern: run into + object (noun)
run into a wall
run into a fence
run into another car
run into a pole
run into a tree
The delivery truck ran into the side of the building during the storm. ✅ (Correct)
The delivery truck ran the side of the building into during the storm. ❌ (Incorrect — inseparable, always stays together)
To meet someone unexpectedly
Common pattern: run into + person (noun)
run into an old friend
run into someone at the store
run into a coworker
run into her by chance
run into him downtown
Small world — I ran into my dentist while hiking in Colorado last summer. ✅ (Correct)
Small world — I ran my dentist into while hiking in Colorado last summer. ❌ (Incorrect — inseparable, always stays together)