Differences between come across and come up
Come across means to find or discover something by chance, while come up means to arise or happen unexpectedly.
Meanings and Definitions: come across vs come up
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 up
- 1Appear.
I'll be late home tonight because something's COME UP at work has to be ready for tomorrow morning.
- 2Rise ( the sun ).
The sun CAME UP just as we reached the outskirts of the town.
Usage Examples: come across, come up 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 up
Example
A new issue has come up at work, and I need to deal with it.
Example
Whenever a problem comes up, she always finds a solution.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Come across
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Come up
crop up
To arise or appear unexpectedly or suddenly.
Example
A few issues cropped up during the project, but we were able to resolve them quickly.
spring up
To appear or arise suddenly or unexpectedly.
Example
New businesses are springing up all over the city, creating more job opportunities.
pop up
To appear or happen suddenly or unexpectedly.
Example
A notification popped up on her phone, reminding her of an upcoming appointment.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
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 up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: come across or come up?
Both come across and come up are commonly used in everyday conversation. However, come across is more frequently used than come up.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of come across and come up
Both come across and come up are informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. 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 up
The tone of come across and come up can differ based on context. Come across often carries a surprised or curious tone when related to finding something unexpected, while come up typically has a more urgent or serious tone, especially when referring to unexpected problems or situations.
