Differences between come across and come apart
Come across means to find or discover something by chance, while come apart means to break into pieces or separate.
Meanings and Definitions: come across vs come apart
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Come across
- 1Find by accident.
I CAME ACROSS my old school reports when I was clearing out my desk.
- 2Agree to have sex with someone.
I was surprised when she CAME ACROSS on the first night.
- 3The way other people see you.
He CAME ACROSS as shy because he spoke so quietly.
Come apart
- 1Break into pieces.
It CAME APART when I tried to lift it off the floor and I had to glue it back together.
Usage Examples: come across, come apart in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
come across
Example
I came across an interesting article while browsing the internet.
Example
She comes across as a very confident person.
come apart
Example
The old book came apart when I tried to open it.
Example
The cheap toy comes apart easily, so be careful when playing with it.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Come across
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Come apart
To break into small pieces or particles and lose its original form or structure.
Example
The sandcastle disintegrated as the tide came in and washed it away.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “come”
Phrasal Verbs with “across”
Phrasal Verbs with “apart”
Differences in come across vs come apart: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: come across or come apart?
In daily conversation, people use come across more often than come apart. This is because come across is used for more common situations such as finding something interesting online or meeting someone unexpectedly. Come apart is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about things that are breaking or falling apart. So, while both phrases are used, come across is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of come across and come apart
Come across and come apart 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 across and come apart
The tone of come across and come apart can differ based on context. Come across often carries a surprised or curious tone when related to discovering something new or meeting someone unexpectedly, while come apart typically has a negative or frustrated tone, especially when referring to things that are breaking or falling apart.
