Word
encountering
Phoneticsen·coun·ter·ing, stress on the second syllable
US/ɛnˈkaʊnɝɪŋ/
UK/ɛnkˈaʊntəɹɪŋ/
Definition
v. meeting someone or finding something by chance, especially when it is unexpected or difficult. You use this when you face a problem or see a person you did not plan to see.
v. meeting or finding someone or something unexpectedly. Often describes facing opposition, difficulties, or specific obstacles during a process.
Examples
“We are encountering some technical problems with the new software.”
“While hiking through the dense forest, the team began encountering rare species of birds they had never seen before.”
“The research team is currently encountering significant resistance from local authorities, which may delay the publication of their findings by several months.”
Examples
simple
“We are encountering some technical problems with the new software.”
contextual
“While hiking through the dense forest, the team began encountering rare species of birds they had never seen before.”
complex
“The research team is currently encountering significant resistance from local authorities, which may delay the publication of their findings by several months.”
Usage
The verb is transitive and takes a direct object. It is the present participle form of 'encounter'.
Pitfall
encountering with a problem
encountering a problem
Encounter is a transitive verb and does not require the preposition 'with'.
Real-World Examples
“S ince underground ecoacoustics is a young field, we’re still ironing out details, discovering unknowns, and encountering challenges.” “Millions of drivers across the country are encountering speed cameras for the first time, or will soon.” “Christopher Columbus later wrote about encountering vast mats of it during his voyage to the Americas.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
- アルファベット
- 読み方の一覧 →
QR code
englishreference.com/q/encountering