The Village Idiom

come around

The idiom "come around" means to change one's opinion or position, typically after being hesitant or resistant.

Filed under C

In a sentence

  • She didn't like the idea at first, but she eventually came around and agreed to go on the trip.
  • I'm sure he'll come around to our way of thinking once he understands the benefits.
  • It took some time, but the neighbors finally came around to the idea of having a community garden.

Where it comes from and how it is used

The idiom "come around" can have multiple meanings and can be used in different contexts. It is derived from the verb "come" and the preposition "around." The idiom can be used both transitively and intransitively. As an intransitive verb, "come around" means to change one's opinion or position on something. It can imply a shift from an initially negative attitude to a positive one. This change in opinion is similar to the idiom "change one's mind." It is like when someone has a strong belief about something but then "comes around" to see things differently. They have a change of heart or perspective.

Going over to the majority is also another way to describe someone who changes their opinion or position on something. When someone "goes over to the majority," it means they switch their stance to align with what the majority believes. It is like when someone was against a particular viewpoint but then "comes around" to see things differently and joins the majority opinion. This idiom is similar to "come around" because it also implies a change of opinion or belief.

It can also mean to regain consciousness or wake up from a state of unconsciousness. When someone "comes around" in this sense, it means they regain awareness and consciousness. It is similar to "waking up" or "coming to." It is like when someone was unconscious but then "comes around" and becomes awake again. This is a different meaning of "come around" compared to its use in relation to changing one's opinion.

As a transitive verb, "come around" means to visit someone's place or a specified location. It is like when someone "comes around" to your house to see you. They make a visit or stop by. This use of "come around" is similar to "visit" or "drop by." It is when someone comes to a specific location to see or spend time with someone.

The idiom can also be used to refer to a recurring or regular event. It often implies a change or movement in time or space, suggesting a shift from one point to another. For example, if something "comes around" every year, it means it happens again after a year has passed. It is like when an event or occasion "comes around" again, signaling its recurrence. This use of "come around" is related to the concept of something happening periodically.

Know an earlier use or a better origin story?Tell us.