Run up against Meaning in English
expression
ˈɹən/ /ˈəp/ /əˈɡeɪnst/, /əˈɡɛnst
RUN-uhp-uh-GAYNST
ɹˈʌn/ /ˈʌp/ /ɐɡˈɛnst
ruhn-UHP-uh-GENST
Definition
To unexpectedly face a problem, difficulty, or obstacle while trying to achieve something.
Usage & Nuances
Used mainly in professional or problem-solving contexts, usually with problems or obstacles ('run up against difficulties'). Informal but not slang. Not used for physical collisions—it's about facing challenges.
Spanish: encontrarse con - tropezar conPortuguese (BR): esbarrar em - deparar-se comPortuguese (PT): deparar-se com - esbarrar emChinese (Simplified): 遇到（困难、问题）Chinese (Traditional): 遇到（困難、問題）Hindi: का सामना करना (मुसीबत/समस्या से)Arabic: يصطدم بـ - يواجه (مشكلة أو عقبة)Bengali: মুখোমুখি হওয়া - সমস্যার সম্মুখীন হওয়াRussian: столкнуться сJapanese: 直面する - 抱えるVietnamese: gặp phải - đối mặt vớiKorean: 직면하다 - 봉착하다Turkish: karşılaşmak - yüz yüze gelmekUrdu: سامنا کرناIndonesian: menghadapi - menemui
Example Sentences
We ran up against some problems during the project.
basic
If you run up against any trouble, let me know.
basic
New businesses often run up against unexpected costs.
basic
You might run up against some resistance when you suggest new ideas.
natural
We ran up against some strict regulations in that country.
natural
Every time I try to upgrade the software, I run up against more technical issues.
natural