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Dictionary-enhanced synonyms

Synonyms for “Come” — 10 Other Ways to Say It

To move from where you are to where someone else is.

IPA: /kʌm/Level: A1Register: neutralPart of speech: verb

Meanings of Come — Pick the Sense You Need

Come has 2 common meanings. The synonyms below are grouped by meaning so you can jump straight to the sense you need.

  1. Meaning #1 as a verb

    To move from where you are to where someone else is.

  2. Meaning #2 as a verb

    To happen or occur as a result of something.

How to Pronounce Come

IPA: /kʌm/ Stress: O

The 'o' sound is short like in 'cup', not long like in 'coat'. Say: KUH-m.

Full pronunciation guide for come →

5 Synonyms for Come (Meaning #1 — as a verb)

These synonyms work when you use come as a verb. Meaning: To move from where you are to where someone else is.

arrive

/əˈraɪv/
verb A1

To come to a place where you are going.

Example: We arrive at the airport at 10 AM.

approach

/əˈproʊtʃ/
verb B2

To move nearer to something or someone gradually.

Example: The storm is approaching from the west.

reach

/riːtʃ/
verb A1

To stretch out your hand or arm to get something that is far from you.

Example: Can you reach the book on the top shelf?

visit

/ˈvɪzɪt/
verb B1

To go and spend time at a place or with a person.

Example: I visit my grandmother every weekend.

enter

/ˈɛntər/
verb A1

Enter means to go into or come inside a place like a room or building.

Example: Please enter the classroom quietly.

5 Synonyms for Come (Meaning #2 — as a verb)

These synonyms work when you use come as a verb. Meaning: To happen or occur as a result of something.

happen

/ˈhæpən/
verb A1

Something occurs or takes place, often by chance.

Example: What happened at the party last night?

occur

/əˈkɜːr/
verb A2

When something happens at a particular time.

Example: The accident occurred at midnight yesterday.

result

/rɪˈzʌlt/
noun A1

What happens after something else. The outcome you get from doing something.

Example: The exam result was excellent.

arise

/əˈɹaɪz/
verb B1

To happen or appear, usually because something caused it; to get up from sitting or lying down.

Example: Problems have arisen with the new software system.

emerge

/ɪˈmɜːrdʒ/
verb B2

To come out or appear, especially from a hidden place. Can also mean to become known or to become successful.

Example: The sun emerged from behind the clouds.

Smart Synonyms for Come — When to Use Each

arrive

when come emphasizes reaching a final destination

approach

when you come closer to something gradually

Antonyms of Come — Opposite Words

How to Use Come and Its Synonyms in Sentences

  • Can you come to my house tomorrow? A1
  • Please come here and help me now. A1
  • When will she come back home? A1
  • Christmas comes in December every year. B1
  • When opportunity comes, be ready to take it. B1

Frequently Asked Questions About Synonyms of Come

What is another word for "come"?

Common synonyms for "come" include: arrive, approach, reach, visit, enter.

What can I say instead of "come"?

Try one of these alternatives: arrive, approach, reach, visit, enter. Pick the synonym whose register and meaning fits your sentence — see the cards above for definitions and examples.

Is "come" formal or informal?

"come" is generally used in neutral contexts.

When should I use "come" instead of "arrive"?

Use "come" when you want to keep the exact nuance shown in the meaning section above; switch to "arrive" when you need a different register, level, or shade of meaning. Compare the cards above to decide.

What are the antonyms of "come"?

Words with the opposite meaning of "come" include: leave, depart, go.

Explore “Come” in Other Tools