Quick Definition
Come Across — To find or meet someone/something by chance; to make a particular impression on others.
Meanings of Come Across
| Meaning | Example Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Find by chance | I came across an old photo while tidying. | I found it unexpectedly. |
| Make an impression | She comes across as very confident. | She gives the impression of being confident. |
Example Sentences
| Sentence | Meaning in Context |
|---|---|
| I came across an old photo while tidying. | I found it unexpectedly. |
| She comes across as very confident. | She gives the impression of being confident. |
| "Don't worry -- I'll come across it." | Using it in a short reassurance. |
| She decided to come across the whole situation. | Applying the phrasal verb in context. |
Grammar Notes
Separability & Transitivity
Type: inseparable | Transitivity: intransitive
Inseparable. In the 'impression' meaning, followed by 'as' + adjective or noun: come across as friendly.
How to Use Come Across
Neutral. The 'impression' meaning is common in professional contexts (interviews, presentations).
| Register | Example / Notes |
|---|---|
| Informal / Spoken | I came across an old photo while tidying. |
| Neutral / Written | Consider context; single-word synonyms may suit formal writing. |
Similar Phrasal Verbs
Practise Come Across
Practice English Phrasal Verbs
Use these exercises to master phrasal verbs in context:
Frequently Asked Questions about Come Across
What does "Come Across" mean?
"Come Across" means: To find or meet someone/something by chance; to make a particular impression on others. It is a intransitive phrasal verb rated CEFR B1.
Is "Come Across" separable or inseparable?
"Come Across" is inseparable. Inseparable. In the 'impression' meaning, followed by 'as' + adjective or noun: come across as friendly.
How do I use "Come Across" in a sentence?
I came across an old photo while tidying. -- in this example, 'Come Across' means i found it unexpectedly.
What is the register of "Come Across"?
Neutral. The 'impression' meaning is common in professional contexts (interviews, presentations).
What CEFR level is "Come Across"?
"Come Across" is typically taught at CEFR B1 — Intermediate level. It appears frequently in neutral contexts.
What is the difference between "Come Across" and similar phrasal verbs?
"Come Across" specifically means: To find or meet someone/something by chance; to make a particular impression on others. Compare with similar verbs in the 'Similar Phrasal Verbs' section below for nuanced differences.
Can "Come Across" be used formally?
Neutral. The 'impression' meaning is common in professional contexts (interviews, presentations). When writing formally, consider whether a single-word synonym might be more appropriate for the context.
Does "Come Across" take an object?
"Come Across" is intransitive. Inseparable. In the 'impression' meaning, followed by 'as' + adjective or noun: come across as friendly.
How can I practise "Come Across"?
Use LexFizz's Find the Match and Flip Tiles exercises to practise 'Come Across' in context. Seeing it in multiple sentences helps the meaning stick.
Is "Come Across" used in British or American English?
"Come Across" is used in both British and American English, though register and frequency may vary. Neutral. The 'impression' meaning is common in professional contexts (interviews, presentations).