Which sentence uses 'come across' correctly?

I came across an old photo while cleaning the attic

I came across the street to meet you

I came across an old photo while cleaning the attic

The bridge came across the river

Which sentence uses 'come across' correctly?

She comes across as very confident in interviews

He came across the finish line first

Which sentence uses 'come by' correctly?

Good jobs are hard to come by these days

The bus will come by this route

Good jobs are hard to come by these days

I come by the office every morning at 8

Which sentence uses 'come by' correctly?

Can you come by my house later for coffee?

The train came by the station too fast

She comes by the grocery store home

Which sentence uses 'come out' correctly?

The new iPhone will come out next month

I need to come out from the house now

The new iPhone will come out next month

Which sentence uses 'come out' correctly?

The truth finally came out after the investigation

The students came out to the classroom

Understanding 'Clock Up': Definition and Usage

📖 Definition

To clock up means to accumulate or achieve a specific number of things, often used in reference to numbers, distances, or milestones.

Examples in context

The marathon runner clocked up thousands of miles in training.
Our company has clocked up numerous awards this year.
With each race, the athlete clocked up more experiences.

📖 Definition

To clock up means to accumulate or achieve a specific number of things, often used in reference to numbers, distances, or milestones.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable

Yes

The object can be placed between or after the verb and particle.

Neutral

Suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Transitive

Yes

Requires a direct object to complete its meaning.

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense	Form	Example
Present Simple	clock up	He clocks up miles running every morning.
Past Simple	clocked up	She clocked up remarkable achievements last year.
Present Continuous	clocking up	They are clocking up hours for charity.
Present Perfect	have clocked up	We have clocked up over a hundred sales this month.

💡 When to Use

Tracking achievements

Use when referring to the accumulation of accomplishments, numbers, or milestones over time.

Example: "Our team clocked up many awards last year."

Measuring distance

Appropriate for describing the accumulation of distance, often in travel or sports contexts.

Example: "He clocked up 100 miles on his bike."

Quantifying experience

When expressing the accumulation of experience or time in a particular activity or job.

Example: "She clocked up two decades of teaching experience."

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Incorrect object placement

❌ Wrong: He clock up achievements quickly.

✅ Correct: He clocked up achievements quickly.

💡 Tip: Remember to use the past tense 'clocked' for past events.

Using without an object

❌ Wrong: She clocks up rapidly.

✅ Correct: She clocks up victories rapidly.

💡 Tip: Ensure there's an object to specify what is clocked up.

Wrong tense form

❌ Wrong: They are clock up dozens.

✅ Correct: They are clocking up dozens.

💡 Tip: Use the continuous form for ongoing actions.

"As time marches on, wise souls clock up experiences, valuing life's lessons more than the mere passage of years and accomplishments."

In Context

In the early 20th century, aviator Amelia Earhart began to clock up flying hours, determined to make her mark in aviation history. Her journey began with flying lessons in 1921. Amelia’s ambition saw her clock up countless hours in the air, leading to her famous transatlantic solo flight in 1932. While many viewed flying as merely a hobby, Amelia was relentless in her pursuit, aiming to clock up milestones that would inspire future generations. The achievements she clocked up, such as becoming the first woman to receive the Distinguished Flying Cross, were a testament to her dedication. Public interest in Amelia soared as her records continued to clock up. However, her most ambitious goal was flying around the world. Tragically, in 1937, as she attempted this feat, she disappeared over the Pacific Ocean. Despite her untimely end, Amelia Earhart had clocked up an indelible legacy, demonstrating that perseverance can break boundaries. Her name continues to inspire, as the achievements she clocked up represent the heights of human ambition and spirit.

Practice

CLOCK UP - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

Listen and repeat the audio as many times as needed to improve your pronunciation
Use the audio as a dictation exercise, trying to write what you hear and understand
Create a new sentence following the structure of the example sentences

Examples in Context

1
Listen to example

The marathon runner clocked up thousands of miles in training.
How to Become a Hiker
2
Listen to example

Our company has clocked up numerous awards this year.
How to Become a Hiker
3
Listen to example

With each race, the athlete clocked up more experiences.
How to Become a Hiker

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

accumulate amass

Antonyms

diminish

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"The team managed to ___ an impressive number of victories this season."

clock off

clock up

clock in

clock down

❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Clock Up

What is the origin of clock up?

The phrase 'clock up' originates from the concept of measuring progress with a clock, metaphorically representing achievements or distance gained over time.

Can clock up be used in formal and informal contexts?

Yes, 'clock up' is neutral and versatile, making it suitable for both formal documents and everyday conversations, especially when discussing milestones or achievements.

What is the difference between clock up and accumulate?

While both mean to gather or collect over time, 'clock up' often implies tracking or measuring specific achievements or distances, whereas 'accumulate' is more general.

Browse National Parks Phrasal Verbs

About the Author

Alessandra Nóbrega

History teacher who fell in love with English! This passion led me to specialize in languages and work on bilingual education projects. With 37 years in education, I believe learning should be meaningful – not just memorization.

Learn more about my journey

📖 Definition

📖 Definition

📝 Grammar Info

📊 Conjugation Table

💡 When to Use

⚠️ Common Mistakes

In Context

CLOCK UP - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

Examples in Context

Synonyms & Antonyms

Quick Check

❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Clock Up

Related Phrasal Verbs

Alessandra Nóbrega