"Come across" vs "Run across"

Question

"Come across" vs "Run across"

Both 'run across' and 'come across' are correct phrases in English. They are interchangeable and can be used to mean encountering something or someone unexpectedly. The choice between them is a matter of personal preference or regional usage.

Last Updated: March 26, 2024

The phrase 'come across' also means to encounter something or someone unexpectedly. It is often used in informal contexts.

Examples:

I came across an interesting article while browsing the internet.
She came across a rare coin in her attic.
Have you ever come across a more helpful person?
While cleaning the garage, we came across some old photographs.
He came across as very knowledgeable during the presentation.

Alternatives:

run across
stumble upon
chance upon
encounter unexpectedly
find unexpectedly

The phrase 'run across' means to encounter something or someone unexpectedly. It is often used in informal contexts.

Examples:

I ran across an old friend at the supermarket yesterday.
While hiking, we ran across a beautiful waterfall.
Have you ever run across a book that changed your life?
She ran across some interesting information while doing research.
The kids ran across a stray kitten in the park.

Alternatives:

come across
stumble upon
chance upon
encounter unexpectedly
find unexpectedly

Answer 1

Come across

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

Run across

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"Come across" vs "Run across"

Come across

Run across

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