happen across
B1 neutral inseparable transitive
In simple words
To find something without trying to find it — like a lucky accident.
Literal meaning: To move across something and have it happen that you find it.
Meanings
1 B1
idiomatic
neutral
To find or encounter someone or something by accident, without planning to.
"I happened across an old diary in the attic that I never knew existed."
Grammar: inseparable
2 B1
idiomatic
neutral
To meet someone unexpectedly in a particular place.
"She happened across her old teacher at the farmer's market."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Slightly more formal or literary than 'come across'. Common in both British and American English. Emphasizes the randomness of the encounter.
Commonly used with
photograph document book shop person article
Forms
Base
happen across
I/you/we/they
3rd person
happens across
he/she/it
Past simple
happened across
yesterday
Past participle
happened across
have + pp
-ing form
happening across
continuous
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