run into snags

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "run into snags" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing encountering problems or obstacles while trying to complete a task or project. Example: "While working on the new software update, we ran into snags that delayed the release date."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

Yet Protecting Futures has run into snags beyond the hurdles it had anticipated.

The New York Times

Conversely, first-time buyers who run into snags and delay closings can hold up the sellers.

The New York Times

But even people who think their papers are neatly in order can run into snags that upend their lives.

The New York Times

Other telecoms and airport-equipment companies among a total of 50 Chinese businesses in India have also run into snags, including difficulties in obtaining visas for visiting staff.

The Economist

At the same time two more Moses-conceived projects - a mid-Manhattan Expressway and the Lower Manhatan Expressway - began to run into snags.

The New York Times

Fulton also said a plan to turn off power at the site, first reported by the Guardian, had run into snags.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

1962 Europe and U.K. Run Into Snag BRUSSELS — Britain's trouble-ridden negotiations with the European Common Market ran into more difficulty today [Oct. 8] as they resumed here on the Foreign Ministers' level after a two-month lapse.

The New York Times

In fact, AltaRock immediately ran into snags with its drilling, repeatedly snapping off bits in shallow formations called caprock.

The New York Times - Science

But subsequently, the officials said, American diplomats ran into snags from Russia and France, both of which raised objections and demanded greater control for the United Nations.

The New York Times

A new school data system introduced this fall also ran into snags, leaving some students unable to get assigned to classes or obtain transcripts for college applications.

The New York Times

The Open has run into scheduling snags when rain or long matches extend the day program.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "run into snags", ensure that the context clearly indicates what is causing the problems or delays. This provides clarity and helps the reader understand the nature of the difficulties encountered.

Common error

While "run into snags" is a useful idiom, avoid using it excessively in a single piece of writing. Vary your language by using synonyms such as "encounter difficulties" or "face obstacles" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "run into snags" functions as an idiomatic verb phrase, indicating the experience of encountering unexpected problems or difficulties. As Ludwig AI points out, this phrase is generally considered correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "run into snags" is an idiomatic expression used to describe encountering unexpected problems or difficulties. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English, suggesting it's appropriate for various contexts, especially news and media. While generally neutral in register, more formal settings might benefit from alternatives like "encounter difficulties". Remember to clarify the cause of the problems when using this phrase and avoid overuse by varying your language with synonyms.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

encounter difficulties

This alternative is more formal and general, suitable for a wide range of situations where problems arise.

face obstacles

This phrase emphasizes the challenges that need to be overcome, highlighting the obstructive nature of the issues.

meet with setbacks

This suggests a temporary delay or reversal in progress, focusing on the negative impact on advancement.

come up against hurdles

Similar to "face obstacles", this emphasizes the need to overcome challenges, often in a competitive context.

hit roadblocks

This implies a complete halt or significant obstruction in progress, suggesting a more serious impediment.

experience glitches

This is more appropriate when referring to minor, often technical, problems that disrupt functionality.

stumble upon impediments

This suggests an unexpected encounter with obstacles that hinder progress.

contend with complications

This signifies a need to manage complex and often unforeseen issues that arise during a process.

find oneself in a predicament

This alternative is used in situations that are difficult or unpleasant and that is not easy to resolve.

face a challenge

This is a more general way of saying something ran into a problem and could refer to a task that is difficult.

FAQs

What does it mean to "run into snags"?

To "run into snags" means to encounter unexpected problems or difficulties during a project, process, or activity. It suggests that things are not progressing smoothly due to unforeseen obstacles.

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

You can use "run into snags" to describe any situation where unexpected problems arise, for example: "The project "ran into difficulties" when the funding was delayed", or "We "encountered problems" during the implementation of the new system".

What are some alternatives to "run into snags"?

Some alternatives to "run into snags" include "encounter difficulties", "face obstacles", "meet with setbacks", "experience glitches", and "hit roadblocks". The best alternative depends on the specific context and the nature of the problem.

Is it better to say "run into snags" or "encounter difficulties"?

Both phrases are correct, but "encounter difficulties" is more formal and can be used in a wider range of situations. "Run into snags" is more idiomatic and might be more appropriate in informal contexts.