To Come From vs. To Come Out

Attribute	To Come From	To Come Out
Origin	Starting point or place of origin	Emerging or exiting from a place or situation
Direction	Moving away from a place or point	Moving outward or away from a confined space
Implication	Indicates a source or cause	Indicates emergence or appearance
Usage	Commonly used to describe origins or ancestry	Commonly used to describe emergence or release

Definition

When we talk about the phrases "to come from" and "to come out," we are referring to two different concepts in the English language. "To come from" typically indicates the place of origin or the source of something, while "to come out" often refers to making something public or revealing something that was previously hidden.

Usage

The phrase "to come from" is commonly used when discussing someone's background or heritage. For example, one might say, "I come from a small town in the Midwest." On the other hand, "to come out" is frequently used in the context of coming out as a member of the LGBTQ+ community or revealing a secret or truth. For instance, someone might say, "I came out to my family last year."

Origin

The phrase "to come from" has its roots in Old English and has been used in the English language for centuries. It is a straightforward expression that conveys the idea of origin or source. On the other hand, "to come out" has a more nuanced origin, with its modern usage dating back to the mid-20th century in the context of LGBTQ+ individuals revealing their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Connotation

When we use the phrase "to come from," it often carries a neutral or positive connotation, as it simply indicates where someone or something originated. It can be a statement of fact without any judgment attached. In contrast, "to come out" can have a more complex connotation, as it may involve revealing something that was previously hidden or kept secret. This can evoke feelings of vulnerability or bravery depending on the context.

Emotional Impact

While both phrases can have emotional significance, "to come out" tends to have a more profound emotional impact. Coming out can be a deeply personal and challenging experience for many individuals, as it involves revealing a part of themselves that may have been hidden or suppressed. On the other hand, "to come from" is typically a more straightforward statement of origin that may not carry the same emotional weight.

Examples

Here are some examples of how the phrases "to come from" and "to come out" can be used in sentences:

• "She comes from a long line of artists and musicians."
• "He came out to his friends and family last month."
• "The recipe for this dish comes from my grandmother."
• "She came out as bisexual in high school."

Conclusion

While both "to come from" and "to come out" are common phrases in the English language, they have distinct meanings and connotations. "To come from" typically refers to origin or source, while "to come out" often involves revealing something that was previously hidden. Both phrases can have emotional significance, but "to come out" tends to have a deeper impact due to the vulnerability and bravery often associated with revealing personal truths.