Phrasal verbs "bump into" vs "run into"

Differences between bump into and run into

Bump into and run into are very similar in meaning, but bump into is usually used for accidental encounters, while run into can be used for both accidental and intentional encounters.

Meanings and Definitions: bump into vs run into

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Bump into

  • 1Meet by chance.

    I BUMPED INTO Helen on the underground the other day.

Run into

  • 1Cost.

    The project has RUN INTO millions of dollars without any prospect of a return on this investment.

  • 2Meet by accident.

    IRAN INTO James in a bar in the City on Friday.

Usage Examples: bump into, run into in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

bump into

Example

Yesterday, I bumped into my old classmate at the grocery store.

Example

She often bumps into her neighbors while walking her dog.

run into

Example

I run into my old friend at the grocery store.

Example

She runs into her neighbor while walking her dog.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Bump into

To hit or crash into something or someone accidentally.

Example

I wasn't paying attention and ended up colliding with a parked car.

To discover or come across something unexpectedly.

Example

While hiking, we stumbled upon a beautiful waterfall.

To find or encounter something by luck or coincidence.

Example

I chanced upon an old friend at the grocery store yesterday.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Run into

To arrange a meeting or encounter with someone intentionally.

Example

Let's meet up with John for lunch tomorrow.

To find or encounter something or someone unexpectedly.

Example

While cleaning out the attic, I came across some old family photos.

To accidentally encounter or meet someone unexpectedly.

Example

I bumped into my neighbor at the grocery store this morning.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “bump”

Phrasal Verbs with “run”

Phrasal Verbs with “into”

Differences in bump into vs run into: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: bump into or run into?

Both bump into and run into are commonly used in daily conversation. However, run into is slightly more common than bump into because it can be used in a wider range of situations.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of bump into and run into

Both bump into and run into are informal phrases that are suitable for everyday conversations with friends and family. They are not typically used in formal settings like business or academic contexts.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of bump into and run into

The tone of bump into and run into can depend on the context. Bump into often carries a surprised or apologetic tone when referring to accidental encounters, while run into can have a neutral or even positive tone when referring to intentional encounters.

bump into & run into: Synonyms and Antonyms

Bump into

Synonyms

Antonyms

Run into

Synonyms

Antonyms

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