What are the definitions of “come up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 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.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “come up”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb come up is to appear or happen unexpectedly. It is often used when talking about a sudden event or situation that needs attention or action. For example, it can mean a new problem that arises, an unexpected opportunity, or a sudden change in plans.
What are the different verb forms of “come up”?
| Root Verb | come up |
| Third Person Singular Present | comes up |
| Present Participle | coming up |
| Simple Past | came up |
| Past Participle | 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.
Example
There is a big event coming up next week.
Example
An emergency came up, so I had to leave early.
Example
Several issues have come up during the meeting.
What kind of phrasal verb is “come up”?
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 up” 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
A new problem came up at work.
Example
An opportunity came up for me to travel.
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 up” 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
A new problem came up at work.
Example
An opportunity came up for me to travel.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “come up”?
Good things to know
Does “come up” have an informal or formal tone?
Come up is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal situations. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, such as business meetings or academic discussions. The level of formality depends on the context in which it is used.
