What are the definitions of “come about”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Happen, occur.
The meeting CAME ABOUT because both sides were sick of fighting.
- 2Shift direction ( nautical ).
The yacht CAME ABOUT to a heading of 240 degrees.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “come about”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb come about is to happen or occur. It is often used to describe events or situations that take place, especially when the cause or reason is not immediately clear.
What are the different verb forms of “come about”?
| Root Verb | come about |
| Third Person Singular Present | comes about |
| Present Participle | coming about |
| Simple Past | came about |
| Past Participle | come about |
Example
How did this situation come about?
Example
Change often comes about gradually.
Example
The meeting is coming about due to increased demand.
Example
The accident came about because of a misunderstanding.
Example
The changes have come about over time.
What kind of phrasal verb is “come about”?
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 about” 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
The party came about as a surprise.
Example
The new policy came about after much debate.
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 about” 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
The party came about as a surprise.
Example
The new policy came about after much debate.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “come about”?
Good things to know
Does “come about” have an informal or formal tone?
Come about 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 business meetings, academic discussions, or written documents.
