Phrasal verb
come by
Meanings
to obtain or get something (often with some difficulty)
to visit someone or a place for a short time, usually informally
Definition
To come by means to obtain something or to visit a place briefly.
Come by is a common phrasal verb with two everyday meanings. It can mean to get or acquire something, especially when it is not easy to obtain. It can also mean to visit someone for a short time, often casually or without a long stay.
Examples
- I finally came by a quiet table at the café.
- You can come by my office after lunch if you have a minute.
- She came by some old photos while cleaning the closet.
- They came by our place on their way home from the game.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse "come by" (visit briefly or obtain) with "come back" (return).
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.