Come Across – Meaning and Examples
Sometimes you find something unexpectedly, or someone makes a particular impression on you. In English, we use the phrase to come across for both these situations. This common idiom helps describe discoveries and perceptions in daily life.
What Does “To Come Across” Mean?
“To come across” has two main meanings. It can mean to find or discover something by chance. It can also mean to give a certain impression to others. Think of it like walking through a forest and unexpectedly finding a beautiful flower—you came across it without planning to.
When to Use It
Use the first meaning when talking about finding information online or discovering old photos. Use the second meaning when describing how someone appears to you—friendly, confident, nervous, etc. It is a neutral phrase, good for both casual and slightly formal situations.
Example Sentences
- I came across this interesting article while browsing the internet.
- She comes across as very confident in job interviews.
- He came across his old diary while cleaning the attic.
- Despite his tough appearance, he comes across as very kind.
Mini Dialogue
Anna: “How was your meeting with the new client?”
Ben: “Great! He came across as very professional and knowledgeable.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Remember, this idiom is about chance discoveries or impressions. It is not about physically crossing from one place to another.
❌ Don’t say: “We need to come across the bridge to get home.” (Use “cross” instead).
✅ Do say: “I came across a wonderful little café while exploring the city.”
Practice Tip
Next time you find something interesting online or in a store, say “I came across this…” when telling someone about it. This is the most common way to use this idiom.
Final Note
You now understand how to use “to come across” for both discovering things and describing impressions. It’s a versatile phrase that will make your English sound more natural. Pay attention to context, and you’ll be using this idiom correctly in conversations like a native speaker!