Differences between come across and come upon
Come across and come upon are similar in meaning, but come across is more commonly used to describe accidentally finding something or someone, while come upon is often used to describe discovering something unexpectedly or stumbling upon something.
Meanings and Definitions: come across vs come upon
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 upon
- 1Find by chance.
I CAME UPON the book in a little second - hand bookshop in Dorset.
Usage Examples: come across, come upon 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 upon
Example
While walking in the forest, I came upon a hidden waterfall.
Example
She often comes upon interesting items at the flea market.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Come across
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Come upon
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 “upon”
Differences in come across vs come upon: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: come across or come upon?
In daily conversation, people use come across more often than come upon. This is because come across is used for more common situations such as finding something by chance or meeting someone new. Come upon is not used as much, but it can be used in more formal writing or storytelling. So, while both phrases are used, come across is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of come across and come upon
Come across and come upon 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 upon
The tone of come across and come upon can differ based on context. Come across often carries a surprised or curious tone when related to discovering something or someone, while come upon typically has a more serious or unexpected tone, especially when referring to stumbling upon something dangerous or unexpected.
