1 A2 idiomatic neutral
Of a topic, issue, or name: to be mentioned or to arise in conversation or during a process.
"Your name came up during the interview—they clearly know your work."
inseparable
come up
A2 neutral inseparable intransitive
To arise, appear, or be mentioned; also to approach or to occur unexpectedly.
In plain English
When something suddenly happens, appears, or is mentioned in a conversation.
What does "come up" mean?
4 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 A2 idiomatic informal
Of an event or situation: to occur or happen, often unexpectedly.
"I'm sorry I can't make dinner—something has come up at work."
inseparable
3 A2 neutral
To approach someone, especially by walking toward them.
"A stranger came up to me on the street and asked for directions."
inseparable
4 A2 neutral
Of the sun, moon, or plants: to rise or grow upward and become visible.
"The tulips came up earlier than usual this spring."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To move upward or to approach from below.
Actually means
When something suddenly happens, appears, or is mentioned in a conversation.
Usage tip
One of the most frequently used phrasal verbs in English. Very common in both spoken and written contexts. The sense of a topic arising in conversation is extremely frequent in everyday speech. 'Something came up' is a very common way to explain a sudden change of plans.
Words that pair with "come up"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
topic issue question problem opportunity name
How to conjugate "come up"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
come up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
comes up
he/she/it
Past simple
came up
yesterday
Past participle
come up
have + pp
-ing form
coming up
continuous
Hear "come up" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "come up" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
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