informal2K

UK//haʊ kʌm//US//haʊ kʌm//

Meaning of How come

An informal way to ask why something is the case.

In simple words: Why is it?

How come in a sentence

  • How come you didn't go to the party?
  • Do you know how come she left early?
  • How come it's so hot today?
  • I was wondering how come he got the job.
  • How come you always arrive late?

How to use How come

Used informally to ask reasons for something. Not suitable for formal situations or writing.

Grammar pattern

standalone question

Memory hint

Sounds like 'how come the sun rises?' — thinking about reasons.

Related words

Collocations with How come

  • how come that
  • how come you
  • how come it

Synonyms for How come

Common mistakes with How come

  • Used in formal writing.
  • Confused with 'why'.
  • Incorrectly connected to an explanation.

Compare How come with Why, How so

How come appears in

How come in other languages

More phrases like How come

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Frequently asked questions about "How come"

What does "How come" mean?

Why is it?

What is the definition of "How come"?

An informal way to ask why something is the case.

How do you use "How come" in a sentence?

How come you didn't go to the party?

Can you give another example of "How come"?

Do you know how come she left early?

What are synonyms for "How come"?

Common alternatives include why, what's the reason, how so.

What words go with "How come"?

It commonly pairs with how come that, how come you, how come it.

What are common mistakes when using "How come"?

Used in formal writing. Confused with 'why'. Incorrectly connected to an explanation.

How do you pronounce "How come"?

US: //haʊ kʌm//, UK: //haʊ kʌm//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

Is "How come" formal or informal?

"How come" is informal, so it fits casual conversation with friends and family.

When should I use "How come"?

Used informally to ask reasons for something. Not suitable for formal situations or writing.