Differences between run down and run into
Run down usually means to describe something that is in poor condition or to become exhausted, while run into generally means to meet someone unexpectedly or to collide with something.
Meanings and Definitions: run down vs run into
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Run down
- 1Hit a pedestrian with a vehicle.
The minicab RAN him DOWN on the zebra crossing.
- 2Lose energy or power.
You should only recharge the battery when it has fully RUN DOWN.
- 3Criticise, disparage.
They're always RUNNING me DOWN and I am sick and tired of it.
- 4Find the source or origin of something.
The police RAN DOWN all the leads they had and caught them.
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: run down, run into in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
run down
Example
My phone battery always runs down quickly when I use it a lot.
Example
His energy runs down quickly when he doesn't get enough sleep.
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 Run down
To feel extremely tired or drained of energy.
Example
After running a marathon, she felt completely exhausted and needed to rest for a few days.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Run into
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
Differences in run down vs run into: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: run down or run into?
In daily conversation, people use run into more often than run down. This is because run into is used for social interactions and accidents, which happen more frequently. Run down is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about the condition of something. So, while both phrases are used, run into is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of run down and run into
Run down and run into are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of run down and run into
The tone of run down and run into can differ based on context. Run down often carries a negative or critical tone when related to describing something, while run into typically has a surprised or friendly tone, especially when referring to meeting someone unexpectedly.
