Hey friends! Today, I’m excited to dive into one of the most dynamic areas of English grammar: phrasal verbs with “come.” If you’ve ever felt confused or overwhelmed by phrasal verbs, you’re not alone. They can be tricky, but with a little guidance, you’ll see how versatile and useful they are in everyday conversation and writing. Let’s explore everything you need to know about “come” phrasal verbs—what they mean, how to use them, common mistakes, and some fun practice exercises.
Contents
- 1 Why Are Phrasal Verbs with “Come” Important?
- 2 Phrasal Verbs with “Come”: An In-Depth Breakdown
- 3 Summary Table of "Come" Phrasal Verbs
- 4 Tips for Using Phrasal Verbs “Come” Correctly
- 5 Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- 6 Variations and Related Expressions
- 7 Why Using “Come” Phrasal Verbs Is Crucial
- 8 Practice Exercises
- 9 Tips for Success
- 10 Final Words
Why Are Phrasal Verbs with “Come” Important?
Phrasal verbs are combinations of a verb and one or more particles (prepositions or adverbs) that create new meanings. The verb “come” is especially common and appears in many phrases that we use daily. Understanding these phrases unlocks a richer, more natural way of speaking and writing English.
For example:
- Come across (to find unexpectedly)
- Come up with (to think of an idea)
- Come out (to be published or revealed)
Without knowing these, you might miss out on sounding more fluent and expressive.
Phrasal Verbs with “Come”: An In-Depth Breakdown
Below, I’ll explain some of the most common and useful “come” phrasal verbs. I’ll also provide definitions, examples, and tips on how and when to use them correctly.
1. Come Across
Definition
To find or discover something unexpectedly or by chance.
Example:
I came across an old photo album while cleaning the attic.
Why use it?
This phrase is perfect for conversations where you want to talk about accidental discoveries, whether about ideas, objects, or even people.
2. Come Up With
Definition
To think of or produce an idea, plan, or solution.
Example:
She came up with a brilliant marketing strategy.
Tips:
Use this when referring to creativity or problem-solving.
3. Come Out
Definition
To be published, revealed, or made available to the public.
Examples:
The new book comes out next month.
The truth finally came out during the investigation.
Additional meanings:
- To appear or emerge (e.g., the sun comes out)
- To declare one's sexual orientation (in informal contexts)
4. Come Down With
Definition
To become ill with something.
Example:
I think I’m coming down with the flu.
Usage tip:
Commonly used in informal speech, especially when discussing minor illnesses.
5. Come Back
Definition
To return to a place or person.
Examples:
She promised to come back after her trip.
That old tune always comes back to me.
6. Come Into
Definition
To inherit or receive something, typically money or property.
Example:
He came into a large inheritance after his grandfather died.
7. Come Forward
Definition
To present oneself or offer help, information, or evidence.
Example:
Witnesses are encouraged to come forward with any information.
Summary Table of "Come" Phrasal Verbs
| Phrasal Verb | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Come Across | Find unexpectedly | I came across a lost wallet on the street. |
| Come Up With | Think of an idea | She came up with a clever solution. |
| Come Out | Be published/revealed | His new album comes out next week. |
| Come Down With | Get sick with | I'm coming down with a cold. |
| Come Back | Return | He decided to come back home early. |
| Come Into | Inherit or receive | She came into a fortune last year. |
| Come Forward | Offer help or information | Several witnesses have come forward. |
Tips for Using Phrasal Verbs “Come” Correctly
- Match the right phrasal verb to your context. For example, don’t say “come out” if you mean “discover,” unless the phrase aligns with publication or emergence.
- Practice pronunciation since some "come" phrases may have subtle differences.
- Combine with other expressions to make your speech more fluent, e.g., “came up with an idea that really worked.”
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
| Mistake | Correct Usage | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Using “come” phrases incorrectly in context | Match phrases accurately | For instance, don’t say “come out” when meaning “discover.” |
| Overusing informal phrasal verbs in formal writing | Use appropriately | Reserve “come down with” for casual contexts, formal alternatives in essays. |
| Forgetting the particle placement | Ensure correct verb-particle order | “Come across” not “across come.” |
Variations and Related Expressions
- Come around / Come round (visit or change opinion)
- Come apart (break into pieces)
- Come over (visit someone at their place)
- Come through (succeed or survive a challenge)
- Come along (advance or improve)
Why Using “Come” Phrasal Verbs Is Crucial
Using these phrases correctly allows you to sound natural and expressive. They add nuance and color to your language, making speech and writing more engaging. Plus, mastering “come” phrasal verbs broadens your vocabulary and impression of fluency.
Practice Exercises
Time to put theory into practice! Here are some exercises to help reinforce your understanding.
1. Fill-in-the-Blank
Complete the sentences with the correct “come” phrasal verb:
- After hours of searching, I finally ________ a good deal online.
- She ________ with a fantastic idea during the meeting.
- The new movie will ______ out next Friday.
- He’s feeling sick; I think he’s ________ ________ the flu.
- Can you ________ ________ and help me with this problem?
2. Error Correction
Identify and correct the mistake:
- She came out a new song last week.
- He came across with the solution very quickly.
- The truth came forward during the trial.
3. Identification
Match the phrase with its meaning:
| Phrasal Verb | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Come Into | To inherit |
| Come Out | To be published |
| Come Down With | To become sick |
| Come Forward | To offer information |
4. Sentence Construction
Create sentences using these “come” phrasal verbs:
- Come across
- Come Up With
- Come Out
- Come Down With
5. Category Matching
Group the phrasal verbs by their functions: discovery, illness, return, inheritance, offering help.
Tips for Success
- Consistent Practice: Regularly review and practice these phrases in context.
- Use in Conversation: Incorporate “come” phrasal verbs in daily chats, writing, or even while thinking out loud.
- Read and Listen: Pay attention to how native speakers use them in movies, podcasts, and books.
- Create Flashcards: Write the phrase on one side and meaning/example on the other.
Final Words
Understanding and correctly using phrasal verbs with “come” will dramatically boost your English skills. They are everyday language tools that add clarity, emotion, and nuance. Practice diligently, watch out for common mistakes, and soon, you’ll be masterfully weaving “come” phrases into your speaking and writing. Remember, great communication is all about clarity and relatability—these phrases help you achieve just that.
So, dive into the exercises, keep practicing, and enjoy the journey to fluency with “come” phrasal verbs!
