He accidentally ________ an old friend while shopping downtown.a)ran i...
"He accidentally ran into an old friend while shopping downtown."
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He accidentally ________ an old friend while shopping downtown.a)ran i...
Understanding the Phrase "Ran Into"
When we say someone "ran into" a person, it refers to an unexpected encounter. This phrase is commonly used in casual conversation to describe meeting someone by chance, particularly in public spaces such as shops, streets, or events.
Analysis of the Options
- Option A: ran into
- This is the correct option. It signifies a chance meeting with an old friend. The use of "ran into" implies that the encounter was unplanned and spontaneous, aligning perfectly with the context of shopping downtown.
- Option B: ran out of
- This phrase means to exhaust supplies of something. For example, "I ran out of milk." It does not relate to meeting someone.
- Option C: ran over
- This typically refers to the act of hitting something (or someone) with a vehicle. It conveys a completely different meaning and is not appropriate in the context of encountering a friend.
- Option D: ran off
- This means to leave hurriedly or escape. It implies a lack of intention to meet someone, making it unsuitable for the scenario described.
Conclusion
In summary, "ran into" is the only phrase that fits the context of accidentally meeting an old friend while shopping. The other options carry unrelated meanings that do not apply to the situation. It's essential to understand the nuances of these phrases to use them correctly in conversation.