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come up
/kʌm ʌp/◆phrasal verb
appear or arise
A new issue has come up in the meeting.
A new problem or topic has emerged during the discussion.
literal
To move toward or approach someone or something, often from below.
The sun came up over the horizon.
The sun rose above the horizon.
Often used for physical movement upward or toward a speaker/listener.
general
To arise, happen, or occur, often unexpectedly.
A problem came up during the project.
An unexpected difficulty arose while working on the project.
Common in informal and formal contexts to describe new situations.
general
To be mentioned or discussed.
The topic of salary never came up in the interview.
The subject of salary was never brought up during the interview.
Often used in conversations or meetings.
general
To be promoted or advanced in rank or position.
She came up to manager after two years.
She was promoted to the position of manager after two years.
Less common than other senses but still used.
Law
formal
To be presented for consideration or decision.
The case came up for review next week.
The case was scheduled for review the following week.
Used in legal or procedural contexts.
Collocations
come up withto produce or suggest an idea or solutioncome up againstto encounter difficulties or oppositioncome up toto approach or reach a certain standard
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Context is key
Pay attention to whether 'come up' is used literally (e.g., 'The sun came up') or figuratively (e.g., 'A problem came up'). This will help you understand the intended meaning.
Gold Rule
Literal vs. Figurative
If 'come up' describes physical movement upward or toward someone, it is likely literal. If it describes an idea, problem, or event emerging, it is figurative.
Word Origin
From Old English 'cuman' (to come) + 'up' (indicating upward direction or emergence). The phrasal verb 'come up' has been in use since at least the 14th century, evolving from literal physical movement to metaphorical uses.
Usage Notes
The meaning of 'come up' depends heavily on context. In literal senses, it often refers to upward motion or physical approach. In figurative or abstract senses, it describes the emergence of ideas, problems, or events. The phrasal verb is highly versatile and widely used in both spoken and written English.
Word Breakdown
come
to move or arrive
rootup
indicating upward direction or emergence
adverbEnglish Dictionary