Phrasal verb
come about
Meanings
to happen; to occur, often because of particular causes
to be created or achieved; to come into existence as a result of effort or circumstances
(of a boat or ship) to change direction, especially by turning around
Definition
If something comes about, it happens or becomes real, often as a result of events or actions.
Come about means to happen, especially in a way that is explained by a series of causes or circumstances. It is often used when you want to ask or explain how something happened. It can also mean to change direction, especially for a boat or ship.
Examples
- How did this misunderstanding come about?
- A big change came about after we listened to everyone’s feedback.
- The power outage came about during the storm last night.
- They wondered how the partnership came about so quickly.
Common mistake
Learners often use the wrong preposition (e.g., 'come around' or 'come out') when they mean 'come about' to describe how something happened.
More phrasal verbs
- go on To go on means to continue or keep happening.
- carry out To carry out something means to do it or complete it, especially a plan, task, or instruction.
- set up To set up means to arrange or prepare something so it is ready to use or happen.
- pick up “Pick up” most commonly means to collect someone or something from a place, usually by going there.
- go back To go back means to return to a place, time, or earlier situation.