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

Master the Phrasal Verb 'Drift Into'

📖 Definition

To 'drift into' means to gradually start doing something without a clear plan or conscious decision, often without realizing how one got there initially.

Examples in context

I often drift into deep thought during long meetings.
Without realizing it, he drifted into a leadership role.
She drifted into the conversation, adding insightful comments.

📖 Definition

To 'drift into' means to gradually start doing something without a clear plan or conscious decision, often without realizing how one got there initially.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable

The verb and particle must stay together.

Neutral

Can be used in both informal and formal contexts.

Transitive

Does not require a direct object.

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense	Form	Example
Present Simple	drift into	He often drifts into work without a set agenda.
Past Simple	drifted into	She drifted into a new hobby during the summer.
Present Continuous	drifting into	They are drifting into a comfortable routine.
Present Perfect	have drifted into	We have drifted into a habit of daily walks.

💡 When to Use

Unplanned situations

Use it when someone starts doing something without a clear plan or intention, as in accidentally adopting a routine.

Example: "She drifted into watching TV every evening."

Life transitions

Useful when describing how someone's life changes gradually, often without a clear starting point or reason.

Example: "He drifted into a new career path."

Unexpected social settings

Employ this when someone finds themselves in a social situation they did not intentionally seek out.

Example: "I drifted into a lively conversation at the party."

⚠️ Common Mistakes

wrong preposition

❌ Wrong: He drifted on the discussion.

✅ Correct: He drifted into the discussion.

💡 Tip: Remember: 'drift into' not 'drift on'.

using an object

❌ Wrong: She drifted into the hobby quickly.

✅ Correct: She drifted into a hobby quickly.

💡 Tip: Use 'a/an' when referring to singular nouns.

incorrect verb form

❌ Wrong: They are drifted into a new routine.

✅ Correct: They are drifting into a new routine.

💡 Tip: Use continuous form for ongoing actions.

Practice

DRIFT INTO - 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

I often drift into deep thought during long meetings.
How National Parks Came to Be
2
Listen to example

Without realizing it, he drifted into a leadership role.
How to Become a Hiker
3
Listen to example

She drifted into the conversation, adding insightful comments.
Bringing Animals Back to Life

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

slide into fall into

Antonyms

snap out of

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"Many people ___ into habits without realizing it."

drift onto

drift into

drift from

drift with

"In the currents of life, one may drift into unforeseen destinies, guided by the gentle whisper of time and circumstance."

In Context

In the late 19th century, Oscar Wilde, the famed writer, found himself drifting into the vibrant circles of London society. Having moved from Ireland, where he was born, to England, Oscar initially struggled to find his place. However, he soon drifted into the literary scene, his wit and charm making him a sought-after guest at social gatherings. Over time, Wilde's reputation as a playwright and author grew significantly. He caught the attention of many influential figures of the day, often drifting into their company, sharing stories and ideas that would later shape his works. Despite his success, Wilde’s life took a dramatic turn when he drifted into a scandalous affair that ultimately led to his downfall. In 1895, he was convicted of 'gross indecency' and sentenced to two years of hard labor. The once-celebrated figure drifted into obscurity, suffering both physically and emotionally. After his release, Wilde, now exiled from the society that once embraced him, moved to France. He drifted into the quieter life of a lesser-known artist, living under an assumed name until his death in 1900. Wilde’s journey from fame to disgrace highlights how one can drift into situations that dramatically alter their course in life.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Drift Into

What is the origin of 'drift into'?

The verb 'drift' originated from the Old Norse 'dríf', meaning snowstorm. Over time, it evolved to describe gradual movements, combined with 'into' to indicate entering a state.

Can 'drift into' be used in formal and informal contexts?

'Drift into' is flexible and suitable for both contexts. In formal writing, it's used to describe subtle transitions, while in informal settings, it conveys unplanned situations.

What is the difference between 'drift into' and 'slide into'?

Both imply gradual change, but 'drift into' suggests a more passive dynamic, whereas 'slide into' may imply a smoother but still unintended transition.

Browse All 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

DRIFT INTO - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

Examples in Context

Synonyms & Antonyms

Quick Check

In Context

❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Drift Into

Related Phrasal Verbs

Alessandra Nóbrega