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Phrasal verbs "back up" vs "start up"

Differences between back up and start up

Back up usually means to move backward or to create a copy of data or files, whereas start up generally means to begin or launch a new business or project.

Meanings and Definitions: back up vs start up

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Back up

  • 1Make a copy of computer data.

    You should always BACK UP important wrong with the hardware.

  • 2Support.

    The rest of the staff BACKED her UP when she complained about working conditions.

  • 3Drive a vehicle backwards.

    Tom BACKED UP without looking and ran over his laptop.

Start up

  • 1Open a business.

    The firm STARTED UP on a shoestring budget.

  • 2Begin, especially sounds.

    There was a pause, then the noise STARTED UP again.

  • 3When an engine starts working.

    The car STARTED UP first time.

  • 4Make an engine work.

    I STARTED the car UP.

  • 5Sit or stand upright because someone has surprised you.

    He STARTED UP when I entered the room and tried to hide what he was doing.

Usage Examples: back up, start up in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

back up

Example

I always back up my computer files every week.

Example

She backs up her phone data to the cloud.

start up

Example

They plan to start up a new online store.

Example

She starts up her computer every morning.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Back up

make a copy

To create a duplicate of data or files as a precautionary measure.

Example

Before formatting the hard drive, make sure to make a copy of all important files and documents.

reverse

To move backward or in the opposite direction.

Example

He had to reverse the car to get out of the narrow alley.

retreat

To move away from a dangerous or unpleasant situation.

Example

The soldiers had to retreat when they realized they were outnumbered.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Start up

launch

To begin or introduce a new business, project, or product.

Example

The company plans to launch a new line of eco-friendly products next year.

kick off

To start or initiate a project, event, or activity.

Example

Let's kick off the meeting with a brief introduction and agenda review.

commence

To begin or start a process or activity.

Example

The construction work will commence next month after the final permits are approved.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “up”

Differences in back up vs start up: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: back up or start up?

In daily conversation, people use start up more often than back up. This is because start up is used to describe a common activity in the business world, while back up is used less frequently. However, both phrases are still commonly used in different contexts.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of back up and start up

Back up and start up are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of back up and start up

The tone of back up and start up can differ based on context. Back up often carries a practical or urgent tone when related to creating a copy of data or files, while start up typically has an optimistic and enthusiastic tone, especially when referring to launching a new business or project.

back up & start up: Synonyms and Antonyms

Start up

Antonyms

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