Top 69 Slang For Encounter – Meaning & Usage

In a world where language is constantly evolving, staying up-to-date with the latest slang can be a challenge. But fear not, we’ve got you covered with a curated list of the coolest and most trendy slang for encounters. Whether you’re looking to spice up your conversations or simply want to be in the know, our team has gathered the hottest terms that will take your encounters to the next level. So, buckle up and get ready to upgrade your vocab game!

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1. Run-in

A “run-in” refers to an unexpected and often unpleasant meeting or confrontation with someone or something. It can be used to describe both physical encounters and verbal disagreements.

  • For example, “I had a run-in with my ex-boyfriend at the grocery store.”
  • In a discussion about encounters with wildlife, someone might share, “I had a terrifying run-in with a bear while hiking.”
  • A person might say, “I always seem to have a run-in with my annoying neighbor whenever I take out the trash.”

2. Brush

A “brush” is a term used to describe a brief encounter or a close call with someone or something. It implies that the encounter was fleeting or that it narrowly avoided becoming a more significant event.

  • For instance, “I had a brush with fame when I saw a celebrity at the airport.”
  • In a conversation about accidents, someone might say, “I had a close brush with a car while crossing the street.”
  • A person might share, “I had a brush with danger when I accidentally touched a live wire.”

3. Bump into

To “bump into” someone means to accidentally meet or encounter them, often unexpectedly. It can be used to describe both planned and unplanned meetings.

  • For example, “I bumped into my old high school friend at the mall.”
  • In a conversation about chance encounters, someone might say, “I always seem to bump into my ex-boyfriend when I least expect it.”
  • A person might share, “I bumped into my boss at the grocery store and had an awkward conversation.”

4. Face-off

A “face-off” refers to a confrontation or showdown between two or more individuals or groups. It implies a direct and often intense encounter where opposing forces come face to face.

  • For instance, “The two rival gangs had a face-off in the alleyway.”
  • In a discussion about sports, someone might say, “The face-off between the two star players was highly anticipated.”
  • A person might share, “I had a face-off with my coworker during a heated argument in the office.”

5. Close encounter

A “close encounter” refers to a near meeting or interaction with someone or something. It suggests that the encounter was significant or potentially dangerous, but not necessarily confrontational.

  • For example, “I had a close encounter with a shark while scuba diving.”
  • In a conversation about paranormal experiences, someone might say, “I had a close encounter with a UFO while driving late at night.”
  • A person might share, “I had a close encounter with a wild deer while hiking in the forest.”

6. Showdown

A showdown refers to a confrontation or face-off between two or more parties. It often involves a high-stakes situation or a clash of opposing forces.

  • For example, in a Western movie, the final gunfight between the hero and the villain is a classic showdown.
  • In a tense negotiation, one might say, “It looks like we’re headed for a showdown.”
  • In a sports context, a commentator might describe a highly anticipated match as a showdown between two top teams.

7. Run into

To run into someone means to unexpectedly encounter or meet them, often by chance or accident.

  • For instance, “I ran into my old friend at the grocery store.”
  • If you unexpectedly meet someone you know on the street, you might say, “Hey, I didn’t expect to run into you here!”
  • Imagine you unexpectedly see your ex at a party, you might exclaim, “I can’t believe I just ran into my ex!”

8. Run across

To run across something or someone means to encounter or find them unexpectedly, often by chance.

  • For example, “I ran across an interesting article while browsing the internet.”
  • If you stumble upon an old photo album while cleaning your attic, you might say, “I just ran across some amazing childhood memories.”
  • Imagine finding a rare book at a flea market, you might excitedly tell a friend, “Guess what I ran across today!”

9. Run afoul of

To run afoul of something means to come into conflict or disagreement with it, often resulting in trouble or negative consequences.

  • For instance, “He ran afoul of the law by speeding.”
  • If someone violates a company policy, you might say, “She ran afoul of the rules and got reprimanded.”
  • Imagine a person who constantly breaks the rules, you might say, “He always seems to run afoul of authority figures.”

10. Cross paths

To cross paths with someone means to encounter or meet them, often by chance or coincidence.

  • For example, “We crossed paths at a networking event and ended up working together.”
  • If you unexpectedly meet a celebrity while on vacation, you might say, “I can’t believe I crossed paths with my favorite actor!”
  • Imagine bumping into an old classmate while traveling abroad, you might exclaim, “What a small world to cross paths with you here!”

11. Meet up

This phrase refers to two or more people coming together in person for a planned or spontaneous meeting. It can be used to describe casual social gatherings or more formal business meetings.

  • For instance, friends might say, “Let’s meet up for coffee tomorrow.”
  • In a work context, a colleague might ask, “When can we meet up to discuss the project?”
  • Someone might suggest, “Let’s meet up at the park for a picnic this weekend.”

12. Clash

This term describes a situation where two or more opposing forces or ideas come into direct opposition or disagreement. It can be used to describe both physical and verbal confrontations.

  • For example, “The two rival gangs clashed in a violent street fight.”
  • In a political debate, one might say, “The candidates clashed over their differing views on healthcare.”
  • A person recounting a heated argument might say, “We clashed over the issue and couldn’t find common ground.”

13. Encounter

An encounter refers to a brief or chance meeting with someone or something. It can also denote an unexpected or unplanned meeting.

  • For instance, “I had a chance encounter with a famous actor at a coffee shop.”
  • In a travel story, someone might say, “During my trip, I encountered many interesting people.”
  • A person describing a strange experience might say, “I encountered a mysterious creature in the woods.”

14. Face-to-face

This phrase describes a meeting or interaction that takes place directly between two or more individuals, without the use of technology or other intermediaries. It emphasizes the physical presence of the participants.

  • For example, “Let’s have a face-to-face conversation to resolve this issue.”
  • In a job interview, a candidate might be asked, “Are you comfortable communicating with clients face-to-face?”
  • A person might say, “I prefer discussing important matters face-to-face rather than over the phone.”

15. Run up against

This phrase means to come across or face challenges or obstacles in a particular situation or endeavor.

  • For instance, “We ran up against some unexpected problems during the construction project.”
  • In a sports context, a coach might say, “Our team has been running up against tough opponents this season.”
  • A person discussing a difficult decision might say, “I’ve run up against conflicting opinions and don’t know what to do.”

16. Come across

To unexpectedly find or encounter something or someone. “Come across” implies that the encounter was unplanned or accidental.

  • For example, “I was cleaning out my attic and came across an old photo album.”
  • Someone might say, “I came across an interesting article while browsing the internet.”
  • A person might ask, “Have you ever come across a celebrity in real life?”

17. Rub elbows

To interact or mingle with someone, especially in a social or professional setting. “Rub elbows” suggests a close proximity or physical contact during the encounter.

  • For instance, “I had the opportunity to rub elbows with some influential business leaders at the conference.”
  • Someone might say, “In this industry, you have to be willing to rub elbows with the right people.”
  • A person might ask, “Are you excited to rub elbows with celebrities at the award ceremony?”

18. Chance meeting

An unplanned or coincidental meeting with someone. “Chance meeting” emphasizes the element of luck or happenstance involved in the encounter.

  • For example, “I had a chance meeting with an old friend at the grocery store.”
  • Someone might say, “It was a chance meeting that led to my career opportunity.”
  • A person might ask, “Have you ever had a chance meeting that changed your life?”

19. Meet by chance

To come across or encounter someone purely by coincidence or random occurrence. “Meet by chance” suggests that the meeting was not intentional or prearranged.

  • For instance, “We met by chance at a coffee shop and struck up a conversation.”
  • Someone might say, “I always seem to meet interesting people when I travel by myself.”
  • A person might ask, “Have you ever met someone by chance and formed a lasting connection?”

20. Run the gauntlet

To go through a difficult or challenging experience. “Run the gauntlet” implies encountering a series of obstacles or tests along the way.

  • For example, “I had to run the gauntlet of job interviews before landing my dream job.”
  • Someone might say, “Going through a divorce can feel like running the gauntlet.”
  • A person might ask, “What challenges did you face while running the gauntlet of starting your own business?”

21. Standoff

A situation where two or more parties refuse to compromise or back down, resulting in a stalemate or deadlock. It often involves a tense confrontation or conflict where neither side is willing to give in.

  • For example, “The negotiations between the two countries reached a standoff, with neither side willing to make concessions.”
  • In a heated argument, one might say, “We were at a standoff, each waiting for the other to apologize first.”
  • A news headline might read, “Armed standoff ends peacefully after hours of negotiation.”

22. Run against

To participate in a contest or election against someone or a group of people. It implies a direct competition or challenge to outperform or surpass the opposing party.

  • For instance, “She decided to run against the incumbent mayor in the upcoming election.”
  • In a sports context, one might say, “Our team will run against the reigning champions in the finals.”
  • A news article might state, “The athlete will run against some of the world’s top sprinters in the upcoming race.”

23. Run the risk

To expose oneself to the possibility of a negative outcome or consequence. It implies knowingly engaging in an activity that carries some level of danger, uncertainty, or potential harm.

  • For example, “By not wearing a seatbelt, you run the risk of serious injury in a car accident.”
  • In a discussion about investments, one might say, “Investing in high-risk stocks means you also run the risk of losing your entire investment.”
  • A doctor might advise a patient, “If you continue to smoke, you run the risk of developing lung cancer.”

24. Run upon

To come across or meet someone or something unexpectedly, often by chance or accident. It implies stumbling upon or encountering someone or something without prior knowledge or preparation.

  • For instance, “While hiking in the forest, we ran upon a rare species of bird.”
  • In a conversation, one might say, “I ran upon an old friend at the grocery store yesterday.”
  • A traveler might share, “During my trip, I ran upon a hidden gem of a restaurant in a small town.”

25. Meet-up

An informal gathering or get-together, usually planned in advance, where people meet up to socialize, interact, or engage in a shared activity. It often involves meeting with friends, acquaintances, or like-minded individuals.

  • For example, “Let’s have a meet-up at the local coffee shop this weekend.”
  • In a discussion about hobbies, one might say, “There’s a regular meet-up for board game enthusiasts in our city.”
  • A social media post might announce, “Join us for a meet-up at the park for a group workout session.”

26. Chance encounter

A chance encounter refers to an unplanned or unexpected meeting with someone or something. It often occurs by coincidence or luck.

  • For example, “I had a chance encounter with my favorite celebrity while walking down the street.”
  • A person might say, “I wasn’t expecting to see my ex at the party, it was a chance encounter.”
  • Another might recount, “During my vacation, I had a chance encounter with a rare bird species.”

27. Unexpected rendezvous

An unexpected rendezvous refers to a sudden and surprising meeting with someone or something. It implies that the meeting was not planned or anticipated.

  • For instance, “I had an unexpected rendezvous with an old friend at the airport.”
  • A person might say, “I had an unexpected rendezvous with a childhood crush at the grocery store.”
  • Another might share, “During my trip, I had an unexpected rendezvous with a famous author.”

28. Serendipitous meeting

A serendipitous meeting refers to a fortunate or lucky encounter with someone or something. It suggests that the meeting was unexpected but brought about a positive outcome or experience.

  • For example, “I had a serendipitous meeting with a potential business partner at a coffee shop.”
  • A person might say, “I had a serendipitous meeting with my favorite musician at a music festival.”
  • Another might share, “During my travels, I had a serendipitous meeting with a local artist.”

29. Accidental meeting

An accidental meeting refers to an encounter that occurs by chance or without intention. It suggests that the meeting was not planned or expected.

  • For instance, “I had an accidental meeting with my neighbor while walking my dog.”
  • A person might say, “I had an accidental meeting with a former classmate at a networking event.”
  • Another might share, “During my hike, I had an accidental meeting with a wildlife photographer.”

30. Casual run-in

A casual run-in refers to an informal or impromptu encounter with someone. It implies that the meeting was not planned and may have been unexpected.

  • For example, “I had a casual run-in with my coworker at a local café.”
  • A person might say, “I had a casual run-in with my ex at the gym.”
  • Another might share, “During my shopping trip, I had a casual run-in with a childhood friend.”

31. Unplanned encounter

This phrase refers to a meeting or interaction that was not planned or expected. It often implies a surprise or spontaneity in the encounter.

  • For example, “I had an unplanned encounter with an old friend at the grocery store.”
  • Someone might say, “I love the excitement of unplanned encounters. You never know who you’ll run into.”
  • In a discussion about chance meetings, a person might share, “I had an unplanned encounter with my favorite celebrity while on vacation.”

32. Impromptu meeting

This term describes a meeting or gathering that is arranged or happens on the spot, without prior planning or notice. It emphasizes the spontaneity and informality of the meeting.

  • For instance, “We had an impromptu meeting in the park to discuss our weekend plans.”
  • A person might say, “I enjoy impromptu meetings because they allow for more creativity and collaboration.”
  • In a conversation about work, someone might mention, “We often have impromptu meetings to address urgent matters.”

33. Random run-in

This phrase refers to an unexpected meeting with someone by chance. It suggests that the encounter was unplanned and happened purely by coincidence.

  • For example, “I had a random run-in with my ex-boyfriend at the mall.”
  • A person might say, “I always seem to have random run-ins with people I haven’t seen in years.”
  • In a discussion about funny encounters, someone might share, “I had a random run-in with my favorite celebrity at a coffee shop. It was surreal!”

34. Unexpected interaction

This term describes an interaction or meeting that was not anticipated or predicted. It suggests that the encounter caught the person off guard or was a surprise.

  • For instance, “I had an unexpected interaction with my neighbor while walking my dog.”
  • Someone might say, “Life is full of unexpected interactions that can lead to new opportunities.”
  • In a conversation about networking, a person might share, “I always try to be open to unexpected interactions. You never know who you might meet.”

35. Serendipitous run-in

This phrase refers to a chance meeting or encounter that is seen as fortunate or lucky. It implies that the encounter was unexpected but turned out to be positive or beneficial.

  • For example, “I had a serendipitous run-in with a potential business partner at a conference.”
  • A person might say, “I believe in the power of serendipitous run-ins. They often lead to amazing connections.”
  • In a discussion about travel, someone might share, “I had a serendipitous run-in with a local musician while exploring a new city. It made my trip unforgettable!”

36. Casual encounter

A casual encounter refers to a meeting or interaction that is relaxed, unplanned, and without any specific purpose or commitment. It often implies a brief or non-committal interaction between two or more people.

  • For example, “I had a casual encounter with an old friend at the grocery store.”
  • Someone might say, “I’m not looking for anything serious, just casual encounters.”
  • In a conversation about socializing, a person might mention, “I enjoy going to parties and having casual encounters with new people.”

37. Unforeseen meeting

An unforeseen meeting refers to an encounter or meeting that was not anticipated or expected. It implies that the meeting took place by chance or without prior knowledge.

  • For instance, “I had an unforeseen meeting with my favorite celebrity at the airport.”
  • A person might say, “I bumped into my ex at the restaurant. It was an unforeseen meeting.”
  • In a story about travel, someone might mention, “During my trip, I had many unforeseen meetings with interesting locals.”

38. Spontaneous run-in

A spontaneous run-in refers to an unplanned and impromptu encounter with someone. It suggests that the meeting was unexpected and happened by chance.

  • For example, “I had a spontaneous run-in with my high school crush at the park.”
  • Someone might say, “I love going to parties because you never know who you’ll have a spontaneous run-in with.”
  • In a conversation about random encounters, a person might mention, “I had a spontaneous run-in with a childhood friend while traveling abroad.”

39. Unexpected confrontation

An unexpected confrontation refers to an encounter or meeting that turns into a conflict or argument, often without prior knowledge or expectation. It suggests that the meeting took a negative turn and involved confrontation.

  • For instance, “I had an unexpected confrontation with my neighbor over a parking space.”
  • A person might say, “I try to avoid unexpected confrontations by staying calm in difficult situations.”
  • In a story about a disagreement, someone might mention, “The meeting started as a friendly discussion but quickly turned into an unexpected confrontation.”

40. Unanticipated encounter

An unanticipated encounter refers to a meeting or interaction that was not expected or foreseen. It implies that the meeting happened unexpectedly or by chance.

  • For example, “I had an unanticipated encounter with a childhood friend while traveling.”
  • Someone might say, “Life is full of unanticipated encounters that can lead to amazing opportunities.”
  • In a conversation about coincidences, a person might mention, “I always enjoy the thrill of unanticipated encounters in my travels.”

41. Unintended meeting

This refers to a meeting or interaction that happens by chance or without prior planning. It implies that the meeting was not intentional or expected.

  • For example, “I had an unintended meeting with my ex at the grocery store.”
  • Two friends bumping into each other at a concert could be described as an unintended meeting.
  • A person might say, “I had an unintended meeting with my favorite celebrity while on vacation.”

42. Random rendezvous

This term combines the idea of a random or unexpected meeting with the concept of a planned meeting or rendezvous. It suggests that the encounter was not planned, but it still has a sense of purpose or intention.

  • For instance, “We had a random rendezvous at the coffee shop.”
  • A group of friends unexpectedly running into each other at a party could be described as a random rendezvous.
  • Someone might say, “I had a random rendezvous with my long-lost cousin while traveling abroad.”

43. Sudden encounter

This refers to a meeting or interaction that happens suddenly or unexpectedly. It implies that there was no prior knowledge or anticipation of the encounter.

  • For example, “I had a sudden encounter with a bear while hiking.”
  • Running into an old friend unexpectedly on the street could be described as a sudden encounter.
  • A person might say, “I had a sudden encounter with a famous author at a book signing.”

44. Unpredicted run-in

This term suggests a meeting or interaction that was not predicted or foreseen. It emphasizes the element of chance or luck in the encounter.

  • For instance, “I had an unpredicted run-in with my high school crush at the mall.”
  • Two colleagues unexpectedly meeting each other in a different city could be described as an unpredicted run-in.
  • Someone might say, “I had a chance encounter with a famous musician at a restaurant.”

45. Coincidental meeting

This term describes a meeting or interaction that happens by coincidence or chance. It emphasizes the element of luck or serendipity in the encounter.

  • For example, “We had a coincidental meeting at the airport.”
  • Two strangers sitting next to each other on a plane and discovering they have mutual friends could be described as a coincidental meeting.
  • A person might say, “I had a fortuitous encounter with a potential business partner at a networking event.”

46. Unplanned rendezvous

This phrase refers to a meeting or encounter that was not planned or expected. It implies a sense of spontaneity or surprise.

  • For example, “I had an unplanned rendezvous with my high school crush at the grocery store.”
  • In a story, a character might say, “I had an unplanned rendezvous with destiny that changed my life forever.”
  • Two friends might discuss their unexpected encounter by saying, “Can you believe our unplanned rendezvous at the concert last night?”

47. Unforeseen run-in

An unforeseen run-in refers to an unexpected and chance encounter with someone. It implies that the meeting was not anticipated or planned.

  • For instance, “I had an unforeseen run-in with my ex at the coffee shop.”
  • In a conversation, someone might say, “I had an unforeseen run-in with my boss at the gym this morning.”
  • Two colleagues might discuss their surprise encounter by saying, “What are the odds of our unforeseen run-in at the airport?”

48. Unintentional meeting

An unintentional meeting refers to an encounter that occurs without intention or purpose. It suggests that the meeting was not planned or sought after.

  • For example, “I had an unintentional meeting with my neighbor while walking my dog.”
  • In a story, a character might say, “Our unintentional meeting in the park led to a serendipitous friendship.”
  • Two strangers might discuss their accidental encounter by saying, “It was such an unintentional meeting, but I’m glad we crossed paths.”

49. Unpredicted encounter

An unpredicted encounter refers to a meeting or interaction that was not predicted or anticipated. It conveys a sense of surprise or unexpectedness.

  • For instance, “I had an unpredicted encounter with a celebrity at the airport.”
  • In a conversation, someone might say, “I had an unpredicted encounter with my childhood friend in a foreign country.”
  • Two friends might discuss their unexpected meeting by saying, “Our unpredicted encounter at the concert made the night even more memorable.”

50. Accidental run-in

An accidental run-in refers to an unplanned and coincidental meeting with someone. It suggests that the encounter was not intentional or expected.

  • For example, “I had an accidental run-in with my ex at the movie theater.”
  • In a story, a character might say, “Our accidental run-in at the bookstore sparked a rekindling of old memories.”
  • Two acquaintances might discuss their chance encounter by saying, “What are the odds of our accidental run-in at the park?”

51. Unanticipated rendezvous

This term refers to an encounter or meeting that was not planned or expected. It can be used to describe a chance meeting with someone or an unexpected gathering.

  • For example, “I had an unanticipated rendezvous with my childhood friend at the grocery store.”
  • In a story, a character might say, “Our unanticipated rendezvous changed the course of my life.”
  • A person might share, “I love the excitement of unanticipated rendezvous during my travels.”

52. Unintended run-in

This phrase describes an unplanned or accidental encounter with someone. It often implies that the meeting was unexpected and possibly awkward.

  • For instance, “I had an unintended run-in with my ex at the coffee shop.”
  • In a conversation, someone might say, “I had an unintended run-in with my boss in the elevator today.”
  • A person might share, “I always seem to have unintended run-ins with people I know when I least expect it.”

53. Unexpected face-off

This term refers to a sudden or surprising confrontation between two or more people. It implies a tense or confrontational encounter.

  • For example, “The unexpected face-off between the two rival gangs led to a heated argument.”
  • In a story, a character might say, “I never expected to have an unexpected face-off with my childhood bully.”
  • A person might share, “The unexpected face-off between the two politicians during the debate was intense.”

54. Face off

This phrase refers to a direct confrontation or conflict between two individuals or groups. It implies a showdown or clash of opposing forces.

  • For instance, “The two boxers are set to face off in the championship match.”
  • In a discussion about rival sports teams, someone might say, “I can’t wait to see them face off on the field.”
  • A person might share, “The face off between the two rival companies in the market is getting intense.”

55. Collide

This word describes a sudden or unexpected meeting or clash between two or more people or objects. It can be used to describe both physical and metaphorical encounters.

  • For example, “Our plans collided when we both showed up at the same event.”
  • In a story, a character might say, “Our paths collided in the most unexpected way.”
  • A person might share, “I never expected our opinions to collide during the meeting.”

56. Confrontation

A confrontation refers to a direct and often hostile encounter between two or more individuals. It can involve arguments, physical altercations, or even just intense verbal exchanges.

  • For example, “The two rival gangs had a confrontation in the alley.”
  • During a heated argument, someone might say, “I’m not afraid of a confrontation, let’s settle this.”
  • In a news report, it might be mentioned, “The confrontation between protesters and police turned violent.”

57. Brush with

Having a brush with something or someone means to have a brief and usually unexpected encounter. It often implies that the encounter was close, risky, or dangerous.

  • For instance, “I had a brush with death when a car swerved into my lane.”
  • Someone might say, “I had a brush with fame when I bumped into a celebrity at the airport.”
  • In a story, a character could recount, “I had a brush with the law when I accidentally trespassed on private property.”

58. Run up on

To run up on someone means to approach them suddenly and often aggressively. It can imply surprise, confrontation, or intimidation.

  • For example, “He ran up on me from behind and scared me.”
  • In a conversation, someone might say, “I don’t recommend running up on strangers, it can be dangerous.”
  • In a news report, it might be mentioned, “The suspect ran up on the victim and demanded their wallet.”

59. Run-in with

A run-in with someone refers to an unexpected or unplanned encounter, often with negative or challenging consequences. It can involve conflicts, arguments, or confrontations.

  • For instance, “I had a run-in with my ex at the grocery store.”
  • During a discussion, someone might say, “I had a run-in with my boss today, and it didn’t go well.”
  • In a story, a character could recount, “He had a run-in with the law when he was caught shoplifting.”

To link up with someone means to arrange a meeting or to come together for an encounter. It implies a planned or intentional gathering.

  • For example, “Let’s link up for coffee tomorrow.”
  • Someone might say, “I linked up with my old friends from high school over the weekend.”
  • In a conversation, it could be mentioned, “We should link up and discuss our plans for the project.”

61. Encounter with

This phrase is used to describe a situation where someone meets or comes across something or someone unexpectedly or by chance. It can also imply a face-to-face interaction.

  • For example, “I had an encounter with a bear while hiking in the woods.”
  • Someone might say, “I had an encounter with my favorite celebrity at the airport.”
  • Another person might share, “I had a strange encounter with a ghost in an old abandoned house.”

62. Face-off with

This phrase is used to describe a situation where two or more people or groups confront each other in a tense or competitive manner. It can also refer to a direct confrontation or conflict.

  • For instance, “The two rival gangs had a face-off in the street.”
  • In a sports context, someone might say, “The teams are preparing for a face-off in the championship match.”
  • Another example could be, “I had a face-off with my boss about my salary increase.”

63. Close call

This phrase is used to describe a situation where someone narrowly avoids or barely escapes a dangerous or risky situation. It implies that the person was very close to experiencing a negative outcome.

  • For example, “That car nearly hit me! It was such a close call.”
  • Someone might say, “I had a close call with a shark while swimming in the ocean.”
  • Another person might share, “I had a close call with a falling tree branch during a storm.”

64. Close shave

This phrase is used to describe a situation where someone narrowly avoids or barely escapes a dangerous or risky situation. It is similar to “close call” and implies that the person was very close to experiencing a negative outcome.

  • For instance, “I almost got hit by a car, but it was a close shave.”
  • In a storytelling context, someone might say, “The hero had a close shave with death, but managed to survive.”
  • Another example could be, “I had a close shave with a pickpocket who tried to steal my wallet.”

65. Close quarters

This phrase is used to describe a situation where people or objects are in close proximity to each other, often in a confined or limited space. It can also imply a situation where individuals are in close contact or working closely together.

  • For example, “We were in close quarters on the crowded subway train.”
  • Someone might say, “The soldiers fought in close quarters during the intense battle.”
  • Another person might share, “Working in a small office means we’re always in close quarters with each other.”

66. Close range

This term refers to a situation where two or more people or objects are in close proximity to each other. It implies that the distance between them is short.

  • For example, in a discussion about combat, someone might say, “It’s important to have a backup weapon for close range encounters.”
  • A hunter might describe a successful shot as, “I took down the deer at close range.”
  • In a game of basketball, a player might say, “He’s deadly from close range, you have to defend him closely.”

67. Close encounter of the third kind

This phrase is a reference to the classification system for encounters with extraterrestrial beings, popularized by the movie “Close Encounters of the Third Kind.” It signifies a direct interaction or sighting of an alien species.

  • For instance, someone might tell a story, “I had a close encounter of the third kind last night. I saw a UFO hovering above my house.”
  • In a discussion about conspiracy theories, someone might say, “Many believe that the government is hiding evidence of close encounters of the third kind.”
  • A science fiction enthusiast might say, “Close Encounters of the Third Kind is a classic movie that explores the possibility of alien contact.”

68. Close encounter of the intimate kind

This phrase refers to a situation where two people have a close and personal interaction, often of a romantic or sexual nature. It implies a level of emotional and physical closeness.

  • For example, someone might say, “I had a close encounter of the intimate kind with my partner last night.”
  • In a discussion about relationships, someone might ask, “How do you navigate close encounters of the intimate kind with someone you just started dating?”
  • A friend might share a funny story, “I had a close encounter of the intimate kind with someone I accidentally bumped into at the grocery store.”

69. Close encounter of the awkward kind

This phrase describes a situation where two or more people have a close interaction that is uncomfortable, embarrassing, or socially awkward. It implies a lack of ease or smoothness in the encounter.

  • For instance, someone might say, “I had a close encounter of the awkward kind when I accidentally walked in on my roommate in the bathroom.”
  • In a discussion about social situations, someone might share, “I always seem to have close encounters of the awkward kind at parties.”
  • A person might recount a funny story, “I had a close encounter of the awkward kind when I mistook a stranger for my friend and hugged them from behind.”
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