Differences between come about and come on
Come about means to happen or occur, while come on means to encourage or persuade someone to do something.
Meanings and Definitions: come about vs come on
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Come about
- 1Happen, occur.
The meeting CAME ABOUT because both sides were sick of fighting.
- 2Shift direction ( nautical ).
The yacht CAME ABOUT to a heading of 240 degrees.
Come on
- 1Encouragement.
COME ON; don't give up now when you're so close to finishing.
- 2Start an illness.
I've got a bit of a headache. I hope it doesn't mean I've got flu COMING ON.
- 3Start functioning ( machines, etc ).
The central heating COMES ON automatically an hour before I have to get up.
Usage Examples: come about, come on in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
come about
Example
How did this situation come about?
Example
Change often comes about gradually.
come on
Example
The coach shouted, 'Come on! You can do it!'
Example
The heater comes on when the temperature drops.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Come about
To happen or take place.
Example
The accident occurred on the highway last night.
To take place or occur.
Example
I don't know how it happened, but I lost my phone.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Come on
To inspire or motivate someone to do something.
Example
I encouraged my friend to apply for the job she really wanted.
To convince someone to do something or believe something.
Example
He tried to persuade me to go to the party with him.
To gently persuade or urge someone to do something.
Example
She coaxed her son into trying a new food by making it look fun and exciting.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “come”
Phrasal Verbs with “about”
Phrasal Verbs with “on”
Differences in come about vs come on: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: come about or come on?
In daily conversation, people use come on more often than come about. This is because come on is used in a variety of situations such as persuading someone to do something, expressing disbelief, or showing excitement. Come about is not used as much and is mainly used to describe how something happened. So, while both phrases are used, come on is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of come about and come on
Come about and come on are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of come about and come on
The tone of come about and come on can differ based on context. Come about often carries a neutral or matter-of-fact tone when describing how something happened, while come on typically has a playful or encouraging tone, especially when trying to persuade someone to do something.
