What does the phrasal verb “come from” mean?

What are the definitions of “come from”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Country or town where you were born.

  She COMES FROM Somalia.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “come from”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb come from is to indicate the place where someone was born or grew up. It is used to talk about a person's origin, such as their hometown or country.

What are the different verb forms of “come from”?

Root Verb	come from
Third Person Singular Present	comes from
Present Participle	coming from
Simple Past	came from
Past Participle	come from

Example

I come from a small town in the countryside.

Example

She comes from a big city in the United States.

Example

He is coming from a family of musicians.

Example

They came from different countries but became friends in college.

Example

The ingredients in this dish have come from local farms.

What kind of phrasal verb is “come from”?

📝

Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a transitive and intransitive verb?
- A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.)
- An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)

Intransitive verb

“come from” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.

Example

My grandparents came from Italy.

Example

The package comes from an international supplier.

📝

Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb?
- A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle.
- An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.

Inseparable

“come from” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.

Example

My grandparents came from Italy.

Example

The package comes from an international supplier.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “come from”?

Come from behind

To achieve success or victory after being in a losing position or at a disadvantage.

Example

The team came from behind to win the championship.

Come from nowhere

To suddenly achieve success or recognition, especially when not expected.

Example

The new company came from nowhere and quickly became a market leader.

Where someone/something comes from

The origin or background of a person or thing.

Example

Understanding where a person comes from can help us appreciate their perspective.

Good things to know

Does “come from” have an informal or formal tone?

Come from is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as academic discussions or professional environments.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “come from”?

Synonyms

• originate
• hail from
• be from
• be native to
• be born in
• grow up in

Antonyms

• go to
• move to
• relocate to
• settle in