comes on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "comes on" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate the start of something, such as a show, event, or feeling. Example: "The show comes on at 8 PM, so we should get our snacks ready."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Not unless the power comes on soon.

The New Yorker

It comes on suddenly.

The Guardian

She comes on too strong.

The New York Times - Arts

Realization, Mr. Graves said, "comes on slowly".

The New York Times

I think he comes on too strong.

The New York Times

He comes on Thursdays.

The New Yorker

Torres comes on, for Drogba.

The New York Times

Maths comes on a DVD.

The Economist

The second comes on Saturday.

The New York Times

The last episode comes on 29 July.

The New York Times

Sometimes the pain comes on gradually.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "comes on" to indicate when something starts or becomes available, such as a TV show ("The show "comes on" at 8 PM") or a feeling ("The pain "comes on" gradually").

Common error

Avoid using "come on" when you mean "come upon", as they have different meanings. "Come on" implies starting or urging, while "come upon" means to find unexpectedly.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "comes on" functions primarily as an intransitive verb, indicating the beginning or activation of something, as seen in Ludwig's examples like "The light "comes on"" and "Maths "comes on" a DVD".

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "comes on" functions to indicate a start, arrival, or activation. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in News & Media contexts. When using "comes on", ensure it aligns with the intended meaning of commencement or appearance, distinguishing it from similar-sounding phrases like "come upon". While versatile, it's most suitable for neutral or informal registers, making it a practical addition to everyday communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

begins

Indicates the start of something, similar to "comes on" but more general.

starts

Another common synonym for "comes on", denoting the commencement of an event or process.

appears

Suggests the arrival or presence of someone or something, relating to the 'on stage' context of "comes on".

is broadcast

Specifically applies to when a TV show or program "comes on" air.

is released

Applicable when referring to a product or piece of media that "comes on" the market.

is presented

Similar to "appears", suggesting a formal introduction or presence.

is activated

Relevant when referring to a device or system that "comes on".

is turned on

Directly relates to powering on a device or light.

approaches

Suggests something is getting closer to happening or arriving, similar to the idea of "comes on".

is introduced

Refers to a formal presentation or the beginning of someone's involvement.

FAQs

How can I use "comes on" in a sentence?

"Comes on" can be used to indicate the start of something (The show "comes on" at 8 PM) or the appearance of someone (Then Dom "comes on the scene"). It can also describe a feeling that begins gradually (Sometimes the pain "comes on" gradually).

What does "comes on strong" mean?

"Comes on strong" means someone is behaving in an overly assertive or aggressive way, especially in a social or romantic context (I think he "comes on too strong").

What can I say instead of "comes on" when talking about a TV show?

Instead of "comes on", you can use alternatives like "starts", "begins", or "is broadcast" depending on the specific context.

What is the difference between "come on" and "go on"?

"Come on" is often used as an interjection to express encouragement or disbelief. "Go on" can mean to continue or to proceed. They are not interchangeable.