He came through the long illness and feels much better now.
come through
idiomTo survive, to endure.
Origin
disputed originConflation of Middle English þurȝcomyn (v. inf.), with inseparable prefix, and comen thurgh, a verb-adverb/preposition combination. Cf. German durchkommen, where the prefix is separable. Equivalent to come + through.
The company faced a difficult financial crisis last year, but they came through it stronger than before.
Despite the brutal conditions and the constant threat of failure, the expedition members eventually came through the ordeal with their spirits intact.
- 01
appetite comes with eating
Starting an activity increases one's desire to continue it.
- 02
as they come
As it is possible to be.
- 03
blow to kingdom come
To totally destroy (something); to annihilate or wipe out (something).
- 04
burn that bridge when one comes to it
To anticipate dealing with a problem or situation either by acting in a manner that alienates or cuts ties with others, or merely with the expectation of encountering trouble.
- 05
Christmas come early
Something very delightful or fortunate that is happening or has happened, especially earlier than expected.
- 06
come a cropper
To suffer some accident or misfortune; to fail.
- 07
come a long way
To make significant progress.
- 08
come again
A polite formula used when one has not heard or understood what has been said, or to indicate surprise.
Last updated April 17, 2026