Bump into

Meaning

The idiom "bump into" is used to describe an unexpected encounter or accidental meeting with someone or something. It can be used to express surprise, embarrassment, or excitement, depending on the context.

The literal meaning of "bump into" is to collide or strike against someone or something by chance. However, in contemporary language, it is commonly used to refer to a random encounter or meeting, whether intentional or accidental. For example, one might say, "I bumped into my old friend at the grocery store."

Usage

• I accidentally bumped into the person walking behind me on the street.
• My colleague and I bumped into each other at a networking event.
• I was so excited to bump into my favorite celebrity at the airport.
• I regret bumping into my ex-girlfriend at the party last night.
• After missing my bus, I ended up bumping into an old friend who offered me a ride.

Roots and History

The idiom "bump into" has been in use since at least the mid-19th century. It is believed to have originated from the literal meaning of bumping or striking against someone or something by chance. Over time, it evolved to refer to a random encounter or meeting. The usage of this idiom has remained relatively consistent over the years, but it has become more common in contemporary language.

Synonyms in English

• Run into
• Encounter
• Meet
• Cross paths
• Stumble upon

Synonyms in other languages

• Serendipity (French) - meaning good fortune by chance
• Fate (German) - meaning a predetermined course of events
• Karma (Hindi/Sanskrit) - meaning the sum of one's actions and their consequences
• Wyrd (Old Norse) - meaning the fate or destiny of an individual or group
• Viraag (Marathi) - meaning separation or longing for something lost

Similar Idioms

• use your loaf

• not at all

• brownie points