‘Come’: The Linguistic Swiss Army Knife
Ever notice how “come” just comes together in so many phrases, proverbs, and idioms? Well, brace yourselves for a fascinating journey as we dive into this versatile verb and all its delightful derivatives.
Whimsical Wanderings with ‘Come’
1. Come What May
- Definition: Whatever happens; no matter what.
- Synonyms: Regardless, No matter the consequences.
- Use Case: “I will support you, come what may.”
- Humor-Filled Quote: “Come what may, but preferably without a traffic jam!”
2. Come To Grips With
- Definition: To accept or deal with difficulty.
- Synonyms: Face, Confront.
- Use Case: “She needs to come to grips with the reality of the situation.”
- Book Recommendation: “Man’s Search for Meaning” by Viktor Frankl - A journey of coming to grips with life’s most challenging moments.
3. Coming Out of the Woodwork
- Definition: People or things appearing unexpectedly.
- Synonyms: Emerge, Appear without warning.
- Use Case: “Since winning the lottery, long-lost relatives are coming out of the woodwork.”
- Humor-Filled Quote: “Hit the jackpot? Watch even your imaginary friends come out of the woodwork!”
4. Come Hell or High Water
- Definition: Determined to achieve something despite difficulties or obstacles.
- Synonyms: No matter what, Against all odds.
- Use Case: “I’ll deliver this project on time, come hell or high water.”
- Movie Recommendation: “Come Hell or High Water” (2016) - A gritty heist film that embodies determination and resilience.
5. Come Rain or Shine
- Definition: Regardless of the circumstances.
- Synonyms: Unwaveringly, No matter the weather.
- Use Case: “We meet for coffee every Saturday, come rain or shine.”
- Song Recommendation: Jazzy and uplifting, “Come Rain or Come Shine” by Ray Charles.
Cousin Phrases: Related and Similar Terms
- When the Chips are Down: In difficult times.
- Fingers Crossed: Hoping for the best.
- By Hook or by Crook: By any means necessary.
- Full Steam Ahead: With all possible speed and power.
Quirkily Interactive Quizzes
### Which of these is a real phrase featuring 'come'?
- [x] Come out of the woodwork
- [ ] Come on back to the potato sack
- [ ] Come surfing on a rainbow
- [ ] Come springing off a trampoline
> **Explanation:** "Come out of the woodwork" is a true expression. The others? Save them for your next fantasy novel.
### Which of the following means to support someone in all circumstances?
- [ ] Come jump with me
- [x] Come hell or high water
- [ ] Come tipping the canoe
- [ ] Come roll with silk
> **Explanation:** "Come hell or high water" signifies robust support, no matter the difficulties faced.
### True or False: 'Come rain or shine' is an idiom
- [x] True
- [ ] False
> **Explanation:** Absolutely true. It means to continue regardless of circumstances, making it a lovely phrase for showing unwavering determination.
### Fill in the blank: “Friends can be counted on to show up, ____”
- [ ] Come flying with wings
- [ ] Come spinning like tops
- [x] Come what may
- [ ] Come bouncing back
> **Explanation:** “Come what may” fits perfectly, meaning whatever happens.
### Matching Game! Match the idioms with their correct meanings:
- **Idioms**:
- a) Come to grips with
- b) Come rain or shine
- c) Come out of the woodwork
- **Meanings**:
1. People or things appearing unexpectedly
2. Regardless of circumstances
3. To accept or face a difficulty
- **Answers**:
- a → 3
- b → 2
- c → 1
> **Explanation:** These idioms are paired with their proper meanings. Now you know them all!
And as our delightful dictionary digressing on ‘come’ ends, remember: Words may come and go, but your love for language will grow! 🌟
Happy reading,
Lexi Wordsmithington
