What are the definitions of “come up with”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Think of a solution, excuse, etc..
Nobody could COME UP WITH a satisfactory explanation for the accident.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “come up with”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb come up with is to think of a solution, idea, or excuse. It is often used when someone needs to create or invent something new or find a way to solve a problem.
What are the different verb forms of “come up with”?
| Root Verb | come up with |
| Third Person Singular Present | comes up with |
| Present Participle | coming up with |
| Simple Past | came up with |
| Past Participle | come up with |
Example
She always comes up with creative ideas for the project.
Example
He comes up with a new recipe every week.
Example
They are coming up with a plan to improve the business.
Example
Yesterday, she came up with a great idea for the party.
Example
He had come up with a solution to the problem before the meeting.
What kind of phrasal verb is “come up with”?
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 with” 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
She came up with a great idea.
Example
He came up with a solution to the problem.
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 with” 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
She came up with a great idea.
Example
He came up with a solution to the problem.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “come up with”?
Good things to know
Does “come up with” have an informal or formal tone?
Come up with 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 professional settings, such as meetings and presentations.
