Tegenkwamen

Tegenkwamen is a Dutch verb that translates to "to meet by chance" or "to run into" in English. It describes an unexpected encounter with someone or something. The verb is formed by combining the prefix "tegen" (against, in this context meaning "across" or "contrary to expectation") and the verb "komen" (to come).

The act of tegenkwamen implies a lack of prior arrangement or planning. It suggests that the meeting was coincidental, often occurring while one is going about their usual business or traveling. For example, one might tegenkwamen an old friend on the street, or tegenkwamen an unexpected obstacle on a path. The term can also be used more broadly to describe coming across something unintentionally, such as tegenkwamen a rare book in a shop.

In everyday conversation, "tegenkomen" is a common and versatile verb. It can be used in both positive and negative contexts, depending on the nature of the encounter. A positive tegenkwamen might lead to a pleasant conversation, while a negative one could involve encountering something undesirable. The idiomatic use of the word emphasizes the element of surprise and spontaneity in the meeting.