What Does “Come past sb” Mean?
“Come past sb” means to move or walk by someone, usually passing them while going somewhere else.
Introduction
The phrase “come past sb” is a common phrasal verb in English that describes the action of passing by a person. It is often used when talking about movement in physical space, such as walking or driving. Understanding the come past sb meaning helps learners describe everyday situations clearly, like when you see someone on the street or pass someone in a hallway. This phrase is simple but useful for giving directions, telling stories, or explaining movements. In this article, you will learn how to use “come past sb” correctly, see examples, and avoid common mistakes.
Quick Info Box
- Phrasal verb: come past somebody
- Type: Intransitive
- Level: A2–B1
- Short meaning: To move or walk by someone
Structure (Grammar Rules)
“Come past sb” is an inseparable phrasal verb, which means you cannot separate “come” and “past” with an object. The object (sb = somebody) always comes after “come past.”
Correct pattern: come past + somebody
Incorrect pattern: come + somebody + past
How to Use “Come past sb”?
You use “come past sb” when describing the action of moving from one side of someone to another, usually while going somewhere else. It often refers to walking or driving. This phrase is useful for giving directions, describing events, or explaining how you passed a person.
Examples
- She came past me without saying hello.
- When you come past the library, turn left.
- He came past us quickly on his bike.
- I saw him come past the window just a moment ago.
- Come past the door and you will find the meeting room on your right.
These examples show “come past sb in a sentence” as a way to describe passing someone physically.
Common Mistakes
- Incorrect: I came him past on the street.
Correct: I came past him on the street. - Incorrect: She came past quickly me.
Correct: She came past me quickly. - Incorrect: Come past to me.
Correct: Come past me.
Differences / Synonyms
Similar phrases include “walk past,” “go past,” and “pass by.” While all mean moving beyond someone, there are slight differences:
- Walk past: specifically walking by someone.
- Go past: more general for any movement passing someone.
- Pass by: can mean moving near or ignoring someone.
“Come past” often implies movement toward the speaker or a specific point.
Common Collocations
- come past the door
- come past the window
- come past the house
- come past the shop
- come past somebody quickly
Related Phrasal Verbs
Here are related phrasal verbs of come past sb:
Real-life Dialogue
Anna: Did you see John today?
Ben: Yes, he came past me on the way to the office.
Anna: Oh, I missed him. Where exactly did he come past you?
Ben: Just outside the café near the park.
Practice
Fill in the blank with the correct phrase:
She _____ past me without noticing.
- a) came
- b) came past
- c) came over
- d) came through
Answer: b) came past
FAQs
- Q: Can “come past” be used with things other than people?
A: Yes, you can say “come past the building” or “come past the car.” - Q: Is “come past sb” formal or informal?
A: It is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. - Q: What is the difference between “come past” and “go past”?
A: “Come past” often implies movement toward the speaker, while “go past” means moving away. - Q: Can I say “come past me quickly”?
A: Yes, this is a correct and natural expression. - Q: Is “come past” separable?
A: No, “come past” is inseparable; the object always follows the phrase.
