encounter

An encounter is a meeting, usually one that you don't expect.

Example: I had a pleasant encounter yesterday: an old friend of mine visited me.

An encounter is when two people or groups meet to play a game or fight a battle.

Example: I hope there will be no encounter with other soldiers tomorrow.

If you encounter problems, difficulties, etc., you experience them.

Example: When he did encounter problems, he always knew how to fix them.

If you encounter someone, you meet someone, usually unexpectedly.

Example: In the store I encountered my teacher.

If you encounter someone, you meet them to play a game or fight a battle.

Example: At night the battle ship encountered enemy planes.