English Idioms

Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms

Come again

Meaning

The idiom "come again" is primarily used to request that someone repeat a statement or utterance. It can be used to clarify misunderstandings or to seek confirmation. The phrase may also be used sarcastically to express disbelief or surprise at what someone has just said.

John: I can't believe you actually said that. Mary: Come again? Did I say something wrong?

Usage

The idiom "come again" can be used in various contexts, including casual conversations, formal settings, and written communication. Its usage can vary depending on the context.

  • In a casual conversation with friends or family members, it may be used as a friendly way to clarify information or ask for additional details.

Jane: Did you say you were coming over at 7 p.m.? Mark: Come again? I thought we were meeting at 8.

  • In a formal setting, such as a business meeting or academic lecture, it may be used to request clarification of a technical term or concept that is unfamiliar.

Professor: We'll cover calculus in our next lesson. Can you explain what it is? John: Come again? What exactly is calculus?

  • In written communication, such as an email or report, it may be used to ask for clarification of a point made by someone else.

Dear Sarah, I'm not sure if I understand your recommendation for the project. Could you please clarify your reasoning? Best regards, Mike.

  • In an argumentative or confrontational situation, it may be used sarcastically to express disbelief or challenge someone's statement.

John: You're saying I'm lazy and unmotivated? Mary: Come again? That's ridiculous!

  • In a more professional context, such as a job interview or performance review, it may be used to clarify expectations or provide feedback.

Employer: We value communication skills in this role. Can you give an example of how you have demonstrated effective communication? John: Come again? I'm not sure what you mean by "demonstrated effective communication."

Roots and History

The idiom "come again" dates back to the 17th century in English literature. It was first recorded in William Shakespeare's play "Much Ado About Nothing" in 1598, where Beatrice asks Don Pedro to repeat a phrase: "I am not in love."

Beatrice: I am not in love. Come again? Don Pedro: I said you were in love with Benedick. Beatrice: What? With him! No, no, that can't be!

Over time, the idiom evolved to its current meaning and usage. Today, it is a common expression used in daily conversations and written communication across various languages and cultures.

Synonyms in English

  • Repeat
  • Clarify
  • Explain
  • Confirm
  • Question

Synonyms in other languages

Here are five synonyms with translations and descriptions in other languages:

  • Spanish: Repetir - To repeat

¿Puedes repetir eso, por favor? - Can you repeat that, please?

  • French: Répéter - To repeat

Pourriez-vous répéter cela, s'il vous plaît ? - Can you repeat that, please?

  • German: Wiederholen - To repeat

Können Sie das bitte wiederholen? - Can you repeat that, please?

  • Japanese: 繰めてください (繰めてください) - Repeat

僕は、あんたが言ったことを再起きてどういう意味があるかも思っています。 - I think there might be another meaning to what you said. Can you please repeat it?

  • Mandarin Chinese: 重复 (重複) - Repeat

你可以重复一下嗎？ - Can you repeat it once more?

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