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Phrasal verbs "be on" vs "be up"

Differences between be on and be up

Be on usually means to be in progress or happening, while be up generally means to be awake or out of bed.

Meanings and Definitions: be on vs be up

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Be on

  • 1Be functioning ( of machines ).

    The computer IS ON.

  • 2Take place.

    The show IS ON for the next three months.

  • 3Take medication or drugs, especially when they affect the person badly.

    He IS ON anti - depressants and has become very difficult to please.

  • 4Be at the top of one's game, performing very well.

    He IS really ON right now- three goals in five minutes!

Be up

  • 1Be out of bed.

    She's not UP yet.

  • 2Have increased or risen.

    The company's profits ARE UP by fifteen percent.

  • 3When the time for something finishes or expires.

    Time's UP, please finish your drinks and leave.

Usage Examples: be on, be up in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

be on

Example

The lights are on in the living room.

Example

The television is on in the background.

be up

Example

She will be up early tomorrow morning.

Example

He is up and getting ready for work.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Be on

be happening

To be in progress or taking place.

Example

The party will be on this Saturday at 8 pm.

be in full swing

To be at the peak of activity or excitement.

Example

The festival was in full swing with music, food, and games for everyone.

be underway

To have started or begun.

Example

The construction project was underway and expected to finish by the end of the year.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Be up

get out of bed

To leave one's bed and start the day.

Example

I usually get out of bed at 6 am to go for a run.

be awake

To be conscious and aware of one's surroundings.

Example

I couldn't sleep, so I decided to be awake and read a book.

rise and shine

A cheerful way of telling someone to wake up and start the day.

Example

Rise and shine, it's a beautiful day outside!

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “be”

Phrasal Verbs with “on”

Phrasal Verbs with “up”

Differences in be on vs be up: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: be on or be up?

In daily conversation, people use be up more often than be on. This is because be up is used for a common daily routine such as waking up or getting out of bed. Be on is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about something that is happening or in progress. So, while both phrases are used, be up is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of be on and be up

Be on and be 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 be on and be up

The tone of be on and be up can differ based on context. Be on often carries an excited or anticipatory tone when related to events or shows, while be up typically has a practical and casual tone, especially when referring to waking up or getting out of bed.

be on & be up: Synonyms and Antonyms

Be on

Antonyms

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