Differences between come across and come up against
Come across means to find or discover something by chance, while come up against means to face or encounter a difficulty or obstacle.
Meanings and Definitions: come across vs come up against
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 against
- 1Encounter problems or difficulties.
They CAME UP AGAINST a lot of opposition to their plans for an out - of town supermarket development.
Usage Examples: come across, come up against 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 against
Example
We come up against many challenges in life.
Example
She comes up against a lot of resistance at work.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Come across
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Come up against
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 “up against”
Differences in come across vs come up against: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: come across or come up against?
Both phrases are used in everyday conversation, but come across is more common. It's often used when talking about finding something unexpected or meeting someone new. On the other hand, come up against is used less frequently and usually in situations where there is a challenge or problem to overcome.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of come across and come up against
Both come across and come up against are informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations with friends and family. However, 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 against
The tone of come across and come up against can differ based on context. Come across often carries a positive or neutral tone, especially when referring to finding something interesting or meeting someone new. In contrast, come up against typically has a negative or challenging tone, especially when referring to facing a difficulty or obstacle.
