Translation guide
The phrasal verb "come up" has several distinct meanings. This guide organizes them by practical use, from physical movement toward the speaker to abstract ideas like arising topics or approaching events.
The dog came up to me.
Emphasizes the action of approaching. Can be used for people or things.
A stranger came up to me.
Specifically means 'to come up' as in ascending (stairs, a hill, etc.). Only for upward movement.
Please come up the stairs.
To come up to someone in order to start a conversation.
When a subject, problem, or opportunity is mentioned or occurs unexpectedly.
Used when a topic comes up in conversation.
The issue came up in the meeting.
Often used for problems, issues, or matters that arise, sometimes unexpectedly.
More formal, used for incidents, problems, or events occurring.
An error has come up in the system.
When something is scheduled to happen soon.
When the sun or moon appears above the horizon.
When someone's name is brought up, e.g., in a discussion or for a position.
To think of or produce an idea, solution, or plan.
English 'come up' is a phrasal verb with many meanings. Avoid directly translating 'come' and 'up' separately. Use the appropriate Japanese expression for the specific meaning.
A problem came up.
上がる (あがる) is general 'to rise/go up'. 昇る (のぼる) is specifically for celestial bodies or climbing. 上る (のぼる) is for going up stairs, slopes, etc. For 'come up' as in approach, use 近づいてくる or こっちに来る.
Her name came up in the conversation.
A new problem has come up.
The moon has come up.
Emphasizes the process of thinking something up.
We came up with a new plan.
新しい販売戦略を編み出した。
They came up with a new sales strategy.