Synonyms of run-ins

run-ins

noun

plural of run-in

as in encounters

a brief clash between enemies or rivals

the rival gangs had a bit of a run-in last night

Synonyms & Similar Words

• encounters
• skirmishes
• fights
• brushes
• brawls
• quarrels
• arguments
• scrapes
• squabbles
• hassles
• battles
• spats
• rows
• tiffs
• wrangles
• frays

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of run-ins

According to Dutch News, Ben Saunders struggled with health issues and had various run-ins with law enforcement over the years, including a 2016 community service sentence for abusing a traffic official. — Greg Evans, Deadline, 16 Sep. 2026

Kiritsis, who was known to have a quick temper, had several run-ins with the law. — Frannie Comstock, Encyclopedia Britannica, 8 Sep. 2026

Lane was granted immunity from prosecution for his testimony against Adams, though Wright Stevens grappled with growing evidence that suggested Lane had prior run-ins with the Ipalook sisters and was at their home the night of the murders. — Mackenzie Farkus, Christian Science Monitor, 27 Aug. 2026

The odds of run-ins between rattlesnakes and humans — as well as other animals — increased this year due to warmer temperatures, which encouraged outdoor activity for both serpents and humans. — Karen Garcia, Los Angeles Times, 27 Aug. 2026

Colorado Parks and Wildlife officers have been busy recently with a series of run-ins with bears finding their way into cars, homes and apartment complexes. — Mike Snider, USA Today, 22 Aug. 2026

In response to those run-ins, some lawmakers have proposed establishing a regulated bear hunting season in parts of Connecticut, particularly the northwest corner. — John Moritz, Hartford Courant, 14 Aug. 2026

In the months since his arrest, Peters has continued to draw controversy for subsequent run-ins with law enforcement and other legal trouble. — Luke Chinman, PEOPLE, 4 Aug. 2026

Politico and the Washington Post have previously reported on Miller’s run-ins with the law as a young adult, including charges, which were later dismissed, for underage drinking, assault, disorderly conduct, and resisting arrest. — Chad De Guzman, Time, 3 Aug. 2026