Differences between come up and show up
Come up usually means to arise or appear unexpectedly, while show up generally means to arrive or make an appearance at a planned event or gathering.
Meanings and Definitions: come up vs show up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
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.
Show up
- 1Attend something or arrive somewhere.
Very few SHOWED UP at the meeting.
- 2Become clear or apparent.
The downturn in sales SHOWED UP in the company's accounts.
- 3Make someone feel embarrassed or ashamed.
He SHOWED us UP when he arrived drunk and started arguing.
Usage Examples: come up, show up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
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.
show up
Example
I hope they show up to the party on time.
Example
She always shows up early for meetings.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Come up
crop up
To appear or happen suddenly or unexpectedly.
Example
A few issues cropped up during the project, but we managed to resolve them quickly.
To occur or happen unexpectedly or spontaneously.
Example
An opportunity arose for her to study abroad, and she decided to take it.
pop up
To appear or happen suddenly or unexpectedly, often in a playful or informal way.
Example
He likes to pop up and surprise his friends with unexpected visits.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Show up
turn up
To arrive or appear at a planned event or gathering.
Example
I hope he turns up on time for the meeting.
make an appearance
To attend or show up at a social event or gathering.
Example
She decided to make an appearance at the party even though she was feeling tired.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “come”
Phrasal Verbs with “show”
Differences in come up vs show up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: come up or show up?
In daily conversation, people use show up more often than come up. This is because show up is used for more routine events such as meetings, parties, and appointments. Come up is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about unexpected situations. So, while both phrases are used, show up is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of come up and show up
Come up and show 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 up and show up
The tone of come up and show up can differ based on context. Come up often carries a surprised or concerned tone when related to unexpected situations, while show up typically has a neutral or positive tone, especially when referring to attending events or meetings.
