something comes up

USAGE SUMMARY

"something comes up" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is typically used to indicate when something unexpected interrupts plans or events. For example, "I wanted to go to the concert, but something came up and I couldn't make it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

But usually something comes up.

The Economist

"Something comes up that scrambles the race".

The New York Times - Magazine

"Something comes up pretty much every start.

The New York Times - Sports

Unless something comes up, I'm probably voting Green.

The Guardian

I think you just try to string it along and hope that something comes up.

The New York Times

If you stick together long enough, you'll be there when something comes up.

The New York Times

Again, that evening, something comes up for her and Bishop remains alone.

The New Yorker

If they need to vent or if something comes up, I'm here.

The New York Times

If something comes up, you do what you've been doing tonight.

The New Yorker

And anytime something comes up, like the shooting in Newtown, right away it goes to the mentally ill.

The New York Times

I suspect that in a few years maybe something comes up, but, for now, I think he's just fine".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "something comes up" to politely explain a change in availability or plans without needing to provide specific details. It is a versatile and widely understood expression.

Common error

While "something comes up" is convenient, avoid overusing it in professional contexts. Repeated use without any specifics can make you seem unreliable or evasive. Offer a brief explanation when appropriate to maintain transparency.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "something comes up" functions as an idiomatic expression used to indicate that an unexpected event or situation has occurred. It is frequently used as a reason or explanation for a change in plans or unavailability, as seen in Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Wiki

15%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "something comes up" is a common and versatile phrase used to indicate that an unexpected event has occurred, leading to a change in plans or unavailability. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely understood. While suitable for many contexts, from news reports to casual conversations, overuse or reliance on it in professional settings may be perceived as evasive. Alternatives like "unforeseen circumstances arise" or "an unexpected matter requires my attention" may be more appropriate in formal situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unforeseen circumstances arise

Highlights the unexpected nature of the situation and its impact.

unexpected events occur

Focuses on the unpredicted nature of the events that take place.

an issue arises

This phrase emphasizes the emergence of a problem or challenge.

a problem emerges

Focuses specifically on the appearance of a difficulty that needs resolution.

an obstacle appears

Highlights the presence of something that blocks progress or plans.

a conflict arises

Suggests the development of a disagreement or clash.

a snag develops

Suggests a minor, often unexpected, difficulty or problem.

a hitch arises

Similar to 'a snag develops', implying a temporary impediment.

an emergency occurs

Indicates a sudden, serious, and unexpected event requiring immediate action.

plans go awry

Emphasizes that the original plans have deviated from their intended course.

FAQs

How can I use "something comes up" in a sentence?

You can use "something comes up" to explain a change in plans or availability, for instance: "I won't be able to attend the meeting because "something comes up"".

What does "something comes up" mean?

"Something comes up" means an unexpected event or situation has occurred, preventing someone from fulfilling a previous commitment or plan.

Are there more formal alternatives to "something comes up"?

Yes, more formal alternatives include "unforeseen circumstances arise" or "an unexpected matter requires my attention".

Is it okay to use "something comes up" in a professional setting?

Yes, it's generally acceptable, but consider your audience and the context. If possible, providing a brief, professional explanation is preferable. Overuse may make you appear unreliable.