To seem to have a particular personality trait or make a certain impression
To meet or find someone or something unexpectedly
Example Sentences for the English Phrasal Verb Come Across
- I came across a $100 bill while I was walking to work this morning!
- They didn’t like how Brandon came across during the interview, so they hired Alex instead.
- Did you come across a phone while you were cleaning last night? I think I left it here.
- Steve comes across as an idiot in this TV show.
- Yesterday I came across an injured cat on the side of the road. I think somebody had hit it with their car and driven off.
The English phrasal verb, to come across, can be transitive or intransitive.
English Phrasal Verbs
Phrasal verbs can be extremely tricky for learners of English. The reason for this is twofold: there are lots of them and their meaning is not always obvious from the words that make them up. To make things even more difficult, phrasal verbs can have multiple meanings, adding to the headache for learners.
A phrasal verb is made up of a main verb with an attached preposition or adverb. An example of a phrasal verb is run into. Where run is the main verb and into is the preposition. Phrasal verbs can be separated into two groups, intransitive and transitive verbs. Intransitive phrasal verbs do not have a direct object: go out, for example, "I want to go out tonight". Transitive phrasal verbs have a direct object and they can be split up into two further categories: separable and inseparable. With separable transitive phrasal verbs, the verb and the preposition can be split up. For example, both “turn off the radio” and “turn the radio off” are both correct. Inseparable phrasal verbs cannot be split up. For example, “I’ll look after you” is correct, but “I’ll look you after” is not.
Using Storyboard That you can prepare a visual dictionary of phrasal verbs quickly and easily. Even better than that, have your students create their own phrasal verb visual definitions.
How Tos about English Phrasal Verb: To Come Across
How can I teach the meaning of 'come across' using pictures in the classroom?
Use visual examples to illustrate the meaning of 'come across' by showing students images where someone finds something unexpectedly, like discovering a hidden object or running into a friend. This helps students connect the phrase to real-life situations.
How do I create engaging activities to reinforce 'come across' for my students?
Design scavenger hunts or matching games where students must come across certain items or information. These activities encourage active participation and deeper understanding of the phrase in context.
How can I assess student understanding of 'come across' in a lesson?
Have students use 'come across' in sentences or short stories, then share with the class. This allows you to check for correct usage and provides opportunities for peer learning.
How do I help students remember the meaning of 'come across' long-term?
Create a classroom word wall featuring 'come across' with pictures and example sentences. Regularly refer to the wall during lessons to reinforce memory and usage.
Frequently Asked Questions about English Phrasal Verb: To Come Across
What does the phrasal verb 'come across' mean?
The phrasal verb 'come across' means to find or meet something or someone by chance. For example, you might come across a new word while reading a book.
How can teachers explain 'come across' to students?
Teachers can explain 'come across' by giving examples: 'I came across an old friend at the store.' It means the meeting happened unexpectedly.
Can 'come across' have different meanings in context?
Yes, 'come across' can also mean to give a certain impression. For instance, 'She comes across as friendly' means she seems friendly.
What are some example sentences using 'come across'?
Examples: 'I came across a rare coin.' or 'He comes across as confident.' Both show different uses of the phrase.
What is the difference between 'come across' and 'find'?
'Come across' suggests finding something by accident, while 'find' can be intentional or accidental. For example: 'I came across an old photo' vs. 'I found my keys.'
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