Differences between come across and run across
Come across and run across both mean to encounter or find something unexpectedly, but come across usually implies a positive experience while run across can be neutral or negative.
Meanings and Definitions: come across vs run across
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.
Run across
- 1Meet or find accidentally.
IRAN ACROSS an old friend in the library.
Usage Examples: come across, run across 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.
run across
Example
I ran across an interesting article while browsing the internet.
Example
She often runs across old classmates when she visits her hometown.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Come across
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Run across
To meet or come across someone or something unexpectedly.
Example
I encountered unexpectedly my former boss at the airport after not seeing him for years.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “come”
Phrasal Verbs with “run”
- run against
- run up
- run for
- run in
- run through
Phrasal Verbs with “across”
Differences in come across vs run across: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: come across or run across?
Both come across and run across are commonly used in daily conversation, but come across is slightly more common.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of come across and run across
Both come across and run across are informal phrases suitable for casual conversations. 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 run across
The tone of come across is often positive or enthusiastic, while run across can be neutral or negative depending on the context.
