Run into problems

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Run into problems" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing a situation where someone encounters difficulties or obstacles while trying to accomplish something. Example: "While working on the project, we ran into problems that delayed our progress."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We're going to run into problems.

The New York Times

After this, you may run into problems.

The Guardian

Already, the auctions have run into problems.

The New York Times

Any system can run into problems.

The New York Times

And like Mr. Clark, Mr. Santana has run into problems.

The New York Times

It is here that he starts to run into problems.

The New York Times - Books

Some British companies have run into problems in the past.

The New York Times

But its Internet business has run into problems, too.

The New York Times

Attempts to privatize have also run into problems.

The New York Times

Britain's biggest luxury label has run into problems.

The Guardian - Business

"Where you run into problems is college graduates," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "Run into problems" to describe unforeseen difficulties or obstacles encountered during a process or project. It's suitable for both formal and informal contexts but avoid overusing it in highly formal writing where more precise language might be preferred.

Common error

While "Run into problems" is generally acceptable, avoid using it excessively in formal documents or academic papers. Opt for more precise and professional alternatives such as "encounter difficulties" or "face challenges" to maintain a more sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "run into problems" functions as a verb phrase, typically acting as the predicate of a sentence or clause. It describes the action of encountering difficulties or obstacles. As Ludwig AI confirms, this is a standard and acceptable usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "run into problems" is a common and correct way to describe encountering difficulties or obstacles. Ludwig AI confirms that it is usable in written English across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While generally acceptable, it's important to consider the tone of your writing and choose more formal alternatives like "encounter difficulties" or "face challenges" when appropriate. Avoid overuse in highly formal contexts to maintain a professional and sophisticated tone. Remember to use it to describe unforeseen issues during a process or project. The frequent usage in authoritative sources such as The New York Times, The Guardian and The Economist supports its validity and widespread acceptance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Encounter difficulties

Replaces the idiomatic "run into" with the more formal "encounter", altering the tone slightly.

Experience difficulties

Highlights the subjective feeling of difficulty encountered.

Be confronted with issues

Stresses the act of being directly presented with problems.

Face challenges

Focuses on the proactive aspect of dealing with difficulties, suggesting a test of one's abilities.

Face setbacks

Highlights temporary impediments or reversals in progress.

Meet with obstacles

Emphasizes the presence of barriers hindering progress.

Come up against obstacles

Implies a direct confrontation with challenges.

Stumble upon issues

Suggests discovering problems unexpectedly or accidentally.

Be beset by troubles

Indicates being persistently plagued or harassed by difficulties.

Find oneself in a predicament

Signifies being in a difficult, unpleasant, or embarrassing situation.

FAQs

How can I use "Run into problems" in a sentence?

You can use "Run into problems" to describe situations where unexpected difficulties arise. For example: "During the project, we "ran into problems" with the software compatibility."

What can I say instead of "Run into problems"?

You can use alternatives like "encounter difficulties", "face challenges", or "experience difficulties" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "Run into problems" or "Run into a problem"?

"Run into problems" is used when referring to multiple or general issues, while "Run into a problem" is for a singular, specific issue. Both are grammatically correct, but their usage depends on the situation.

What's the difference between "Run into problems" and "Encounter issues"?

"Run into problems" is slightly more informal and suggests an element of surprise, while "Encounter issues" is more formal and neutral. Both describe facing difficulties, but the choice depends on the desired tone and context.