0680 Come down with something

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Physical Health & Sickness
[0680] Come down with something

Explanation

To start to feel ill; to catch an illness, typically a common, mild one like a cold, flu, or stomach bug.
Implies the initial stages or onset of sickness.

Origin

The phrase likely originated in the mid-19th century.
Come down suggests being lowered or brought low by the illness, perhaps having to rest or lie down.
With something indicates an unspecified illness, often because the exact nature isn't known yet or isn't severe enough to specify.

Alternatives

Slang/Informal:

Catching the crud (US)
Got the lurgy (UK/Aus)
Feeling rough / Feeling crappy
Something's trying to get me.

Milder:

Starting to feel unwell
Might be getting sick
Feeling a bit run down / Feeling off-colour (UK)

More Formal:

Experiencing the onset of symptoms
Beginning to feel ill

Situational Appropriateness

Informal to semi-formal.
Very common in everyday conversation, including explaining potential absence from work or social events.

Misunderstanding Warnings

Generally straightforward. Non-native speakers should understand it refers specifically to the *beginning* stages of feeling ill.

Examples

I feel a bit achy and have a sore throat, I think I'm coming down with something.
My son woke up with a fever; he must be coming down with something.
Several people in the office have come down with that bug that's going around.

Dialogue

Anna: You're looking a bit pale today, Ben. Everything okay?

Ben: Not really feeling my best. Got a headache and feel really tired. Pretty sure I'm coming down with something.

Anna: Oh, that's a shame. Maybe you should head home early and rest up?

Ben: Yeah, I might just do that. Don't want it to get worse.

Response Patterns

Sympathy: Oh no, I hope it's nothing serious. / Sorry to hear that.
Advice: You should get some rest. / Drink plenty of fluids.
Caution/Avoidance (sometimes joking): Uh oh, keep your distance! / Don't breathe on me!

Common Follow-up Questions/Actions

After someone says they are coming down with something:

Ask about symptoms: What are you feeling? / Do you have a fever?
Suggest self-care: Make sure you take it easy. / Maybe take some Vitamin C.
Offer well wishes: Hope you feel better soon.

Conversation Starter

No. Explains one's physical state or suspects illness.

Intonation

Emphasis often on DOWN and SOMETHING: I think I'm coming DOWN with SOMETHING.
Often said with a slightly weak, weary, or resigned tone.

Generation Differences

Widely understood and used by all generations.

Regional Variations

Common in all major English-speaking regions.

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[0680] Come down with something