Macmillan dictionary describes 3 possible definitions of that phrasal verb:
- to meet someone, or to find something by chance
- if someone or something comes across in a particular way, you have a particular opinion of them when you meet them or see them
- if something such as a feeling or idea comes across when you speak, you make it very clear to people
To meet someone, or to find something by chance
- I come across Julie in subway.
- Usually I come across good ideas while running.
- I came across sales in Apple Store, so I bought a new phone.
Examples from movies:
- Our house had been in Mama’s family, since her grandpa’s grandpa’s grandpa had come across the ocean about a thousand years ago. (Forest Gump / 00:06:56)
- How often do you come across a three-headed dog? (Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone/ 01:46:44)
If someone or something comes across in a particular way, you have a particular opinion of them when you meet them or see them
- He came across (came over) very well at the last interview.
- That group come across as hard workers.
- So far my iPod comes across as a best music player.