Phrasal verbs "come on" vs "come upon"

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.

To encourage someone to attempt something they may be hesitant about.

Example

You've never tried sushi? Give it a try, you might like it!

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

To find or discover something unexpectedly, often by accident.

Example

While hiking, we stumbled upon a beautiful waterfall.

To find or discover something unexpectedly, often by luck or coincidence.

Example

I chanced upon an old friend at the grocery store yesterday.

To find or discover something unexpectedly, often by chance or accident.

Example

While cleaning out the attic, I happened upon some old family photos.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “on”

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.

come on & come upon: Synonyms and Antonyms

Come upon

Synonyms

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