Phrasal verbs "beef up" vs "build up"

Differences between beef up and build up

Beef up and build up are similar in meaning, but there is a subtle difference between them. Beef up means to make something stronger or more substantial, while build up means to increase or develop something gradually over time.

Meanings and Definitions: beef up vs build up

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Beef up

  • 1Make something stronger or more solid.

    The company BEEFED UP their case when they saw that the public wouldn't accept their first explanation of the accident.

Build up

  • 1Develop a company.

    She BUILT the business UP from nothing into a market leader in less than a decade.

  • 2Increase.

    Tension has been BUILDING UP ever since the government passed the unpopular law.

Usage Examples: beef up, build up in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

beef up

Example

We need to beef up our security measures to prevent theft.

Example

She beefs up her resume by adding more relevant skills.

build up

Example

He wants to build up his savings for a new car.

Example

She builds up her strength by exercising every day.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Beef up

To make something stronger or more robust.

Example

He needs to strengthen his muscles if he wants to compete in the bodybuilding competition.

To strengthen or reinforce something, often with additional resources or support.

Example

The company decided to fortify its cybersecurity measures after a recent data breach.

boost

To increase or improve something, often by adding more resources or energy.

Example

The government plans to boost the economy by investing in infrastructure projects.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Build up

To grow or progress over time, often through deliberate effort or investment.

Example

She worked hard to develop her skills and eventually landed her dream job.

To nurture or foster something, often through careful attention or effort.

Example

The school aims to cultivate a love of learning in its students through engaging and challenging curriculum.

To increase or expand in size, quantity, or quality over time.

Example

The company hopes to grow its customer base by offering innovative products and excellent customer service.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “build”

Phrasal Verbs with “up”

Differences in beef up vs build up: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: beef up or build up?

Both beef up and build up are commonly used in everyday conversation. However, build up is slightly more common than beef up.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of beef up and build up

Both beef up and build up are informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. They are not typically used in formal settings like business or academic contexts.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of beef up and build up

The tone of beef up and build up can differ based on context. Beef up often carries a more forceful or urgent tone when referring to making something stronger or more substantial, while build up typically has a more gradual and patient tone, especially when referring to developing something over time.

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