Browse all

come between

B2 neutral inseparable intransitive
In simple words

to get in the middle and make things harder or damage a relationship

Literal meaning: to move into the space separating two people or things

Meanings

1 B2 idiomatic neutral

to damage a relationship by creating disagreement or distance

"Money should never come between close friends."

"Don't let anything come between us."

— Common line in films and songs; exact single source not reliably attributable
Grammar: inseparable
2 B2 idiomatic neutral

to prevent something from happening or being achieved

"I won't let fear come between me and my goals."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

Most often used about relationships, loyalties, or plans. Usually followed by two people or things.

Commonly used with

friends brothers marriage relationship us them

Forms

Base
come between
I/you/we/they
3rd person
comes between
he/she/it
Past simple
came between
yesterday
Past participle
come between
have + pp
-ing form
coming between
continuous

Understand "come between" better

Try:

Real video examples

Video examples are being collected. Check back soon.

Synonyms

interfere separate divide drive a wedge between stand in the way

Want to master this phrasal verb?

Practice "come between" on Looplines