Phrasal verb
come up
Definition
phrasal verb. to happen unexpectedly, especially when it changes your plans. You use this when you suddenly have a problem or a task to deal with.
phrasal verb. to arise or occur unexpectedly, often necessitating a change in schedule or priority. The verb is intransitive in this sense and takes no object.
Examples
“I'm sorry, but something has come up and I can't meet you.”
“We were planning to go to the cinema, but a work emergency came up at the last minute.”
“Although the project seemed straightforward, several unforeseen technical issues came up during the final testing phase, delaying the launch by a week.”
Examples
simple
“I'm sorry, but something has come up and I can't meet you.”
contextual
“We were planning to go to the cinema, but a work emergency came up at the last minute.”
complex
“Although the project seemed straightforward, several unforeseen technical issues came up during the final testing phase, delaying the launch by a week.”
Usage
This sense is intransitive, meaning it does not take a direct object.
Teaching tip
Contrast with 'come up with' (to think of an idea) to avoid confusion between these two distinct phrasal verbs.
Pitfall
Something came up me.
Something came up.
In the sense of 'happening unexpectedly', the verb is intransitive and cannot take a direct object.
Phrasal verb
Particles
up
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
come + up
Synonyms
Antonyms
Grammar
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
- Level
- B1 · Intermediate
- Updated
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