Phrasal verbs "big up" vs "wind up"

Differences between big up and wind up

Big up is a phrasal verb used to express admiration or praise for someone or something, while wind up means to tease or annoy someone intentionally.

Meanings and Definitions: big up vs wind up

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Big up

  • 1Exaggerate the importance.

    He BIGS himself UP all the time.

  • 2Increase the size of muscles by exercise.

    They work out a lot to BIG themselves UP.

Wind up

  • 1Close a company because it's unprofitable.

    The company was WOUND UP when the creditors demanded payment.

  • 2Tighten the spring in a watch or clock to make it work.

    I forgot to WIND UP my alarm clock and overslept.

  • 3Irritate someone or increase their stress level, especially if done deliberately.

    The children are really WINDING me UP.

Usage Examples: big up, wind up in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

big up

Example

He always bigs up his achievements to impress others.

Example

She bigs up her friends whenever they accomplish something.

wind up

Example

Don't forget to wind up your watch before you go to bed.

Example

She winds up her alarm clock every night.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Big up

To give recognition or praise to someone for their achievements or actions.

Example

I have to give props to my friend for acing her exam despite all the challenges she faced.

To publicly acknowledge or show appreciation for someone or something.

Example

I want to give a shout out to all the volunteers who helped make this event a success.

To express affection or appreciation for someone or something.

Example

Let's show some love to our local businesses by shopping locally and supporting them.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Wind up

pull someone's leg

To tease or joke with someone in a playful way.

Example

I was just pulling your leg when I said I saw a unicorn in the park.

To provoke or irritate someone intentionally to elicit a reaction.

Example

He always tries to get a rise out of his little sister by hiding her toys.

To tease or play a prank on someone in a lighthearted way.

Example

We used to mess with our teacher by rearranging the classroom furniture when she wasn't looking.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “wind”

Phrasal Verbs with “up”

Differences in big up vs wind up: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: big up or wind up?

In everyday conversation, wind up is more common than big up. This is because wind up is used in a variety of contexts, such as joking around with friends or siblings. Big up, on the other hand, is less common and is mainly used in informal settings to show appreciation or support.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of big up and wind up

Wind up and big up are both informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, wind up can be seen as slightly more informal due to its association with teasing or joking.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of big up and wind up

The tone of big up is positive and supportive, while the tone of wind up is playful or mischievous.

big up & wind up: Synonyms and Antonyms

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