Translation guide
When something suddenly occurs to you or you think of it, often in response to a question or situation. Japanese uses different expressions depending on whether it's an idea, a memory, a person, or a word that comes to mind.
You suddenly think of something, like a solution or a realization.
Literally 'float to mind'. The most common and neutral way to say an idea or image comes to mind.
A good idea came to mind.
Does any good method come to mind?
Literally 'float to head'. Very similar to 思い浮かぶ, but slightly more visual or concrete.
His face came to mind.
To hit upon an idea, often with a nuance of inventing or coming up with something. More active than 'come to mind'.
Suddenly, a solution came to mind.
You recall something from the past, often triggered by something.
When asked for an example or recommendation, someone or something pops into your head.
You try to remember a word or name but can't recall it at the moment.
You draw a blank; no ideas or examples occur to you.
Avoid directly translating 'come to mind' as 心に来る or similar. Use the idiomatic phrases above.
思い浮かぶ is more passive (something pops into your head), while 思いつく is more active (you come up with an idea). Use 思い浮かぶ for spontaneous thoughts and 思いつく for deliberate idea generation.
My old lover came to mind.
To have something come to mind that fits the description; to ring a bell. Often used when you realize something matches.
Is there anyone who comes to mind that fits those conditions?