COME AROUND TO

📖 Definition

The phrasal verb 'come around to' means to change one's opinion or decision, often gradually, to a different or opposing viewpoint.

Examples in context

📖 Definition

The phrasal verb 'come around to' means to change one's opinion or decision, often gradually, to a different or opposing viewpoint.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable
No
This phrasal verb cannot be split with a direct object between its parts.
Register
Neutral
Appropriate for both casual and professional settings
Transitive
Yes
Requires a direct object (the viewpoint or opinion)

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense Form Example
Present Simple come around to I hope you come around to my way of thinking.
Past Simple came around to She finally came around to the proposal after much discussion.
Present Continuous coming around to They are slowly coming around to the new policy.
Present Perfect have come around to We have come around to accepting the inevitable changes.

💡 When to Use

persuading someone
Use when someone is being gradually convinced to accept a new idea or opinion different from their original view.
Example: "I hope you'll come around to my perspective on this issue."
changing opinions
Use when discussing a shift in belief or decision, often over time, towards an alternative view.
Example: "Many eventually came around to supporting the new law."
in debates
Utilize in scenarios where convincing others is a key part of the discourse, reflecting a gradual change in stance.
Example: "After several debates, he came around to agreeing with his opponent."

⚠️ Common Mistakes

incorrect usage context
❌ Wrong: She came around to at the meeting.
✅ Correct: She came around to the idea during the meeting.
💡 Tip: Ensure the phrase is followed by an 'idea' or 'opinion'.
missing direct object
❌ Wrong: He finally came around.
✅ Correct: He finally came around to our suggestion.
💡 Tip: Remember to include what is being agreed to.
wrong verb tense
❌ Wrong: They will come around to soon.
✅ Correct: They will come around to it soon.
💡 Tip: Use the correct tense based on context.
Practice

COME AROUND TO - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

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

Examples in Context

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

acquiesce agree

Antonyms

oppose

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"After a lengthy discussion, she finally ___ to our way of thinking."

came about
come around to
went around
run around

"In life's complex journey, patience ensures that even the most stubborn hearts will eventually come around to wisdom and understanding."

In Context

In the early 20th century, Sylvia Pankhurst, a prominent suffragette, tirelessly campaigned for women's voting rights. Initially, her radical approaches faced stiff resistance from many within British society. However, as the years progressed, public opinion gradually began to come around to the necessity and inevitability of gender equality. Pankhurst organized marches, hunger strikes, and public speeches, seeking to sway skeptics and lawmakers alike. Each significant event, whether protest or policy debate, contributed to a slow but sure shift in attitudes. The tide truly turned during World War I when women took on roles traditionally held by men. The British public began to come around to recognizing the crucial societal contributions made by women. Post-war, Pankhurst's unwavering commitment bore fruit, as arguments that once fell on deaf ears started winning support. By 1918, the Representation of the People Act extended the vote to women over 30, marking a monumental victory. Pankhurst's relentless advocacy had helped a nation come around to embracing a more just stance on women's rights. Her journey was testament to persistent advocacy in the face of adversity, illustrating how entrenched viewpoints can be transformed over time.

Frequently Asked Questions about Come Around To

What is the origin of 'come around to'?

+
The phrase 'come around to' originated in the early 19th century and stems from the idea of changing direction or position, metaphorically moving towards a different mental standpoint.

Can 'come around to' be used in formal and informal contexts?

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Yes, 'come around to' is appropriate for both formal and informal contexts, allowing it to be versatile in various settings, from casual conversations to professional discussions.

What is the difference between 'come around to' and 'agree'?

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While 'agree' implies immediate consent, 'come around to' suggests a gradual change of opinion, highlighting a process of persuasion or internal reflection before embracing an idea.
Browse All National Parks Phrasal Verbs
National Parks Phrasal Verbs - WeeklyCross
Alessandra Nóbrega
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



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