stumble on

To find something unexpectedly while doing something else.

• I stumbled on a useful website.
• She stumbled on the answer while reading a magazine.
• Have you ever stumbled on a hidden beach?

How to use it: stumble on something (I stumbled on an old photo while cleaning.)

Similar words: come across, chance upon

Common phrases: stumble on something, stumble on a solution

To lose your balance because your foot hits something while you are walking.

• I stumbled on a stone.
• He stumbled on a tree root but did not fall.
• Be careful not to stumble on the broken step.

How to use it: stumble on something (She stumbled on a loose stone.)

Similar words: trip on, trip over

Common phrases: stumble on something, stumble on a step

To meet someone unexpectedly, without arranging to see them.

• I stumbled on an old friend.
• She stumbled on her former teacher at the airport.
• We might stumble on someone we know at the festival.

How to use it: stumble on someone (We stumbled on an old friend at the market.)

Similar words: run into, bump into

Common phrases: stumble on someone, stumble on a friend

To keep going or trying, although progress is slow and difficult.

• We stumbled on despite the problems.
• The company stumbled on for another year before closing.
• Without a clear plan, they can only stumble on.

Similar words: struggle on, soldier on

Opposites: give up

Common phrases: stumble on alone, stumble on somehow