Definition

To meet someone or something unexpectedly or by chance.

Example

I encountered an old friend while walking in the park.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I had the most surprising encounter today at the coffee shop.

Oh really? Who did you see?

I ran into my old high school friend after years!

That's awesome! It's always nice to reconnect with people.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A meeting that happens by chance, often unexpectedly, or a confrontation between opposing sides.

Example

Their encounter at the coffee shop was completely unplanned.

Conversation

I had a surprising encounter with an old friend yesterday.

Oh really? That sounds interesting!

Yeah, we bumped into each other at the coffee shop.

Definition

To meet someone or something unexpectedly or to come across something, often in a challenging situation.

Example

I encountered a problem while trying to fix my computer.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I had the most surprising encounter yesterday at the park.

Oh really? Who did you meet?

I ran into my old high school teacher out of nowhere.

Root Explanation

Encounter → It is formed from "en-" (meaning to cause to be in) and "counter" (from Latin "contra", meaning against). The word describes the act of coming upon or meeting someone or something, often unexpectedly, as if coming against it.

Memory Tip

Think of 'coming upon' something unexpectedly — 'en-' means to cause to be in, and 'counter' suggests meeting something 'against' you.

Visually Confused Words