run into obstacles

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'run into obstacles' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you're talking or writing about encountering difficulties or impediments when attempting to do something. For example: "I was trying to finish the project on time, but I ran into obstacles along the way."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

Some planned mergers, however, have run into obstacles.

The New York Times

But a deal for Cegetel could run into obstacles from Cegetel's other shareholders.

The New York Times

But even before Trump announced his opposition, Lee's bill had run into obstacles.

The Washington Post

The disabled who do work out at gyms often run into obstacles.

The New York Times

Still, a push to widen the use of health impact assessments in real estate developments could run into obstacles.

The New York Times

Other proposals are less controversial, but if history is a guide, they still may run into obstacles.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

But she was running into obstacles.

The New York Times

But: The project keeps running into obstacles.

MIT Technology Review

Some concepts fell into place smoothly, while others ran into obstacles along the way.

The Economist

Large American technology companies are increasingly running into obstacles as they expand in Europe.

The New York Times

Tells how Ved & other blind children at times ran into obstacles & hurt themselves.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "run into obstacles" to describe unexpected difficulties or challenges encountered during a process or project. For example: "The company ran into obstacles while trying to expand into new markets."

Common error

While "run into obstacles" is a useful phrase, avoid using it repetitively in your writing. Vary your language by using synonyms such as "encounter difficulties" or "face challenges" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "run into obstacles" functions as a verb phrase, typically serving as the predicate of a clause. It describes the action of encountering difficulties or impediments. Ludwig AI validates the correctness and usability of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Social Media

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "run into obstacles" is a commonly used idiomatic phrase to describe encountering difficulties or impediments. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread applicability. It's most frequently found in News & Media and Science, showcasing its versatility across diverse contexts. When writing, remember that while the phrase is appropriate in many cases, varying your language with alternatives like "encounter difficulties" or "face challenges" can enhance readability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

encounter difficulties

Focuses on the experience of meeting problems, similar to "run into obstacles".

face challenges

Emphasizes the confrontation with difficult circumstances.

meet with setbacks

Highlights the experience of delays or reversals in progress.

hit a roadblock

Suggests a complete halt in progress due to an obstacle.

come up against barriers

Highlights the presence of obstacles blocking progress.

experience hurdles

Focuses on overcoming smaller obstacles in a series.

find oneself in difficulty

A more formal way of expressing being in a problematic situation.

be confronted with issues

Emphasizes the direct encounter with problematic topics.

stumble upon complications

Suggests unexpectedly encountering complex problems.

grapple with impediments

Highlights the struggle to overcome obstructions.

FAQs

How can I use "run into obstacles" in a sentence?

You can use "run into obstacles" to describe encountering unexpected problems or difficulties. For example, "The project "ran into obstacles" due to unforeseen circumstances."

What are some alternatives to "run into obstacles"?

Alternatives include "encounter difficulties", "face challenges", or "meet with setbacks". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "run into obstacles" or "face obstacles"?

"Run into obstacles" implies encountering unexpected difficulties, while "face obstacles" suggests a more proactive confrontation with known challenges. The better choice depends on whether the difficulties were anticipated or not.

What's the difference between "run into obstacles" and "overcome obstacles"?

"Run into obstacles" describes the initial experience of encountering difficulties. "Overcome obstacles" implies successfully dealing with and resolving those difficulties. They represent different stages of handling challenges.