Differences between come on and come upon
Come on is an idiomatic expression used to encourage or persuade someone to do something, or to express disbelief or disappointment. Come upon means to find or discover something unexpectedly.
Meanings and Definitions: come on vs come upon
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Come on
- 1Encouragement.
COME ON; don't give up now when you're so close to finishing.
- 2Start an illness.
I've got a bit of a headache. I hope it doesn't mean I've got flu COMING ON.
- 3Start functioning ( machines, etc ).
The central heating COMES ON automatically an hour before I have to get up.
Come upon
- 1Find by chance.
I CAME UPON the book in a little second - hand bookshop in Dorset.
Usage Examples: come on, come upon in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
come on
Example
The coach shouted, 'Come on! You can do it!'
Example
The heater comes on when the temperature drops.
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 on
let's go
An invitation or encouragement to leave or start doing something.
Example
It's getting late, let's go before we miss the movie.
you're kidding
An expression of disbelief or surprise.
Example
I just won the lottery! You're kidding, right?
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 “upon”
Differences in come on vs come upon: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: come on or come upon?
In everyday conversation, come on is more common than come upon. Come on is used frequently in social situations and can be used in a variety of contexts, while come upon is less common and usually used in more specific situations.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of come on and come upon
Come on and come upon are both informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, come upon may be considered slightly more formal due to its less frequent use.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of come on and come upon
The tone of come on and come upon can differ based on context. Come on can have a playful or encouraging tone, but it can also be used in a frustrated or disappointed tone. Come upon usually has a surprised or curious tone when referring to discovering something unexpected.