What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
encounter
Example
I had an encounter with my old friend at the grocery store. [encounter: noun]
Example
She encountered a strange man on her way home from work. [encountered: past tense verb]
encountered
Example
I encountered a problem with my computer this morning. [encountered: past tense verb]
Example
The hikers encountered a bear on their trail. [encountered: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Encounter is more commonly used than encountered in everyday language. Encounter is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while encountered is less common and is typically used in specific situations where someone experiences or faces a problem or challenge.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between encounter and encountered?
Both encounter and encountered can be used in various formality levels, allowing them to be used in both formal and informal contexts.