Differences between come down and come up
Come down usually means to move from a higher place to a lower one, or to reduce in intensity or amount. On the other hand, come up generally means to move from a lower place to a higher one, or to arise or occur.
Meanings and Definitions: come down vs come up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Come down
- 1Rain.
Just look at the rain COMING DOWN! I'm not going out in that.
- 2Travel.
When you're next in London, COME DOWN and see us.
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 down, come up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
come down
Example
The rain started to come down heavily.
Example
When the snow comes down, the roads become slippery.
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 down
To move from a higher place to a lower one.
Example
She had to descend the stairs carefully because of her injured ankle.
To reduce in intensity or amount.
Example
The company decided to lower the prices to attract more customers.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Come up
To occur or happen unexpectedly.
Example
A new opportunity arose when she least expected it.
To become known or visible after being hidden or unknown.
Example
New evidence emerged during the investigation that changed the course of the trial.
crop up
To appear or happen unexpectedly or suddenly.
Example
Unexpected expenses cropped up during the renovation project.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “come”
Differences in come down vs come up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: come down or come up?
In daily conversation, people use come up more often than come down. This is because come up is used for more common situations such as climbing stairs or elevators, or when talking about ideas or topics that arise in conversation. Come down is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about descending from a higher place or when something decreases in intensity. So, while both phrases are used, come up is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of come down and come up
Come down and come up 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 down and come up
The tone of come down and come up can differ based on context. Come down often carries a negative or disappointed tone when related to reducing something or being forced to descend, while come up typically has a positive or excited tone, especially when referring to new ideas or opportunities.
