encounter

/ɪnˈkaʊntər/

meet or experience by chance

While hiking, we encountered a rare bird species.

We unexpectedly met a rare bird while hiking.

general

to meet or experience someone or something by chance

The detective encountered a dead end in the investigation.

The detective faced a situation where progress was impossible.

She encountered resistance when proposing the new policy.

She faced opposition when suggesting the new policy.

Often used for unexpected or chance meetings.

general

to confront or deal with a difficult situation or problem

The company encountered financial difficulties last year.

The company faced financial problems last year.

Can imply overcoming or dealing with challenges.

Collocations

encounter difficultiesface or experience problemsencounter resistanceface opposition or oppositionencounter someonemeet someone unexpectedly

face difficulties or problems

face a difficult situation

Use 'encounter' when describing unexpected or chance meetings or confrontations.

'Encounter' can be used as both a verb and a noun. As a noun, it refers to an unexpected meeting or confrontation.

From Middle French 'encontre' (against, opposite), from Old French 'encontre' (against, in opposition to), from Latin 'in contra' (in opposition to).

Can be used both as a verb and a noun. As a noun, it refers to an unexpected meeting or confrontation.

en-

in, into

prefix

-counter

against, opposite

root

English Dictionary