Differences between come across and come on
Come across means to find or discover something by chance, while come on means to encourage someone to do something or to express disbelief.
Meanings and Definitions: come across vs come on
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 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 across, come on 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 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 across
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Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “come”
Phrasal Verbs with “across”
Differences in come across vs come on: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: come across or come on?
In daily conversation, people use come on more often than come across. This is because come on is used in a variety of situations, such as persuading someone to do something or expressing disbelief. Come across is less common and is mainly used when talking about finding something by chance.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of come across and come on
Come across and come on are both informal phrases that are suitable for everyday conversations with friends and family. However, come on can also be used in more formal settings, such as business meetings or presentations, to encourage participation or express disbelief in a polite manner.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of come across and come on
The tone of come across and come on can differ based on context. Come across often carries a surprised or excited tone when related to discovering something unexpected, while come on typically has a playful or persuasive tone, especially when trying to convince someone to do something.
