Browse all

run in with

B2 informal transitive

To have a conflict, argument, or confrontation with someone, especially a person in authority

In plain English

To get into a fight or argument with someone, especially police or a boss

What does "run in with" mean?

One main meaning — here's how to use it.

1 B2 idiomatic informal

To have a conflict or confrontation with someone, especially someone in authority

"He ran in with his supervisor over the new company policy."

Usage tip

Most commonly used with authority figures: police, the law, management, etc. Often implies the subject was at fault or in trouble.

Words that pair with "run in with"

Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.

law police authorities management teacher neighbour

How to conjugate "run in with"

The five tense forms you'll use most often.

Base
run in with
I/you/we/they
3rd person
runs in with
he/she/it
Past simple
ran in with
yesterday
Past participle
run in with
have + pp
-ing form
running in with
continuous

Hear "run in with" in the wild

Listen to native speakers using "run in with" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.

Keep exploring

Jump to every phrasal verb built on the same verb, particle, or level.