comes, came, come, coming
to come on
phrasal verbC
To start or begin, often suddenly or unexpectedly
- 1The rain came on just as we left the house.
- 2The lights came on when it got dark.
This means something begins to happen, often quickly or without warning. For example, lights can turn on by themselves, or rain can start falling suddenly. It is used when something starts happening, and you did not expect it right away.
People often say "a cold is coming on" when they start to feel sick, meaning the illness is beginning unexpectedly.
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at the police station
Unexpected Duty Call
James
I was just about to leave when the rain came on out of nowhere.
Edward
Yeah, it started so suddenly, didn't it?
James
Exactly, and now I'm stuck here waiting for it to stop.
Edward
Well, at least we have some time to catch up while we wait.
at a community gathering
Sudden Responsibilities
Kimberly
I didn't expect to be in charge today.
George
Yeah, the responsibility can come on quickly sometimes.
Kimberly
I guess I'll have to adapt fast.
George
You'll do great, don't worry.
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Similar to "to come on":
- 1begin
- 2start
