run into roadblocks

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "run into roadblocks" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use the phrase to describe the experience of encountering obstacles that impede progress towards a goal. For example: "We have been trying to launch the new product, but we have been running into roadblocks."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

But there again they run into roadblocks.

The New York Times

But the F.D.A. has said even that labeling could run into roadblocks.

The New York Times

Yet the improvements in teacher training, licensing and certification have run into roadblocks.

The New York Times

Her search for justice began in Spain but continued to run into roadblocks, said her daughter Chon Vargas.

The Guardian

Admittedly, the negotiations have run into roadblocks on both sides, the latest being the firm opposition of France's new president, Nicolas Sarkozy.

The Economist

Local officials who view drilling as an economic boon frequently turn to Mr. Stringer as an ally when they run into roadblocks from Washington.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

Again, the discussion ran into roadblocks.

The Washington Post

But engineers keep running into roadblocks, like equipment failures or issues about how long walls should dry.

MIT Technology Review

Govan had been trying to work out a deal with MassMoCA, and in his version, the deal was running into roadblocks.

The New York Times - Magazine

Some successfully reunited with family members, while others — particularly those whose visas were physically taken or marked as invalid — ran into roadblocks trying to board planes overseas.

The Washington Post

Over the course of a lengthy interview, he gamely tried on several occasions to converse in English, but each time he ran into roadblocks and, with a shrug of resignation, resumed speaking through a translator in Mandarin.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "run into roadblocks" to describe unexpected difficulties or obstacles that hinder progress towards a specific goal. It's most effective when the challenges are unforeseen or create significant delays.

Common error

Avoid using "run into roadblocks" in contexts where physical obstacles are literally encountered. This phrase is primarily idiomatic and refers to abstract challenges rather than physical obstructions in a pathway.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "run into roadblocks" functions as an idiomatic expression, acting as a verb phrase that describes the experience of encountering obstacles or difficulties that impede progress. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Formal & Business

21%

Science

16%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "run into roadblocks" is a commonly used and grammatically sound idiom that effectively conveys the experience of encountering obstacles that impede progress. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. As the examples show, it is primarily used in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Science contexts. When using this phrase, it's important to ensure that the context aligns with its idiomatic meaning, referring to abstract challenges rather than physical obstructions. Consider alternatives like "encounter obstacles" or "face difficulties" for more formal settings or to vary your language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

encounter obstacles

Focuses on the act of meeting hindrances rather than the type of hindrance.

face difficulties

Emphasizes the struggle presented by the problems.

meet with obstacles

Uses "meet with" to describe the encounter with difficulties.

hit a snag

Implies a sudden, unexpected difficulty.

face challenges

Highlights the demanding nature of the situation.

come up against obstacles

Uses "come up against" to suggest confrontation with impediments.

experience setbacks

Indicates a temporary halt or reversal in progress.

find oneself facing hurdles

Adds a sense of surprise and challenge.

be thwarted by obstacles

Indicates being prevented from achieving something by impediments.

contend with impediments

Suggests struggling against obstacles.

FAQs

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

You can use "run into roadblocks" to describe unexpected obstacles that hinder progress. For example, "The project started smoothly, but we "ran into roadblocks" when the funding was delayed."

What's a more formal way to say "run into roadblocks"?

In formal contexts, consider alternatives like "encounter obstacles", "face difficulties", or "experience setbacks". These options maintain a professional tone while conveying a similar meaning.

Is it correct to say "ran into a roadblock" instead of "run into roadblocks"?

While "run into roadblocks" is more common to describe a series of obstacles, "ran into a roadblock" can be used to describe a single, significant obstacle. The choice depends on whether you are referring to multiple issues or a single, major impediment.

What are some common situations where people "run into roadblocks"?

People often "run into roadblocks" in various situations, such as during project development, when seeking funding, or while navigating regulatory processes. Any situation involving progress toward a goal can potentially lead to unforeseen challenges.