STUMBLED UPON Meaning and
Definition
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Stumbled upon is a phrase that means to discover or come across something unexpectedly or by chance. It refers to the act of finding or encountering something without actively seeking it or having prior knowledge of its existence. The term "stumbled" in this context suggests a sense of accidental discovery or a fortuitous encounter.
When someone stumbles upon something, it implies a sudden and unanticipated discovery that may evoke surprise, curiosity, or even astonishment. It often describes stumbling across something while engaged in a different activity or while in an unfamiliar setting. This could include stumbling upon a hidden gem while exploring a new city, stumbling upon an interesting article while browsing the internet, or stumbling upon an old photograph while going through old belongings.
The phrase "stumbled upon" can be used in both literal and figurative sense. It can relate to physically finding something, such as stumbling upon a lost item or a previously unknown place. Additionally, it can be used metaphorically to describe a chance encounter with an idea, a solution to a problem, or a personal realization.
In summary, "stumbled upon" conveys the element of randomness and serendipity associated with discovering something unexpectedly. The phrase emphasizes the spontaneous nature of the encounter and highlights the surprise or wonder that often accompanies these chance discoveries.
Common Misspellings for STUMBLED UPON
Etymology of STUMBLED UPON
The word "stumble" originated from the Middle English word "stomelen", which meant to trip or miss one's step. It can be traced back to the Old English word "stum", meaning block. The addition of "upon" forms the phrase "stumbled upon", which means to come across or discover by chance. The term signifies encountering or finding something unexpectedly, as if one had tripped upon it while walking.
