Meaning: To find or encounter something by chance.
I came across an old photo of us while cleaning the attic.
She came across a rare book at the flea market.
You never know what you might come across while traveling.
Usage Note: Emphasizes unexpected discovery or finding something unintentionally.
Meaning: To give a particular impression (often unintentionally).
If you say that, you may come across as insincere.
He comes across as confident, but he’s actually very shy.
She didn’t want to come across as rude, so she chose her words carefully.
Usage Note: Focuses on how someone or something is perceived by others. Often followed by "as".
Come across (to discover) is about finding something unexpectedly.
Come across (to appear) is about how you are perceived by others.