Differences between bolster up and build up
Bolster up and build up are similar in that they both mean to improve or strengthen something, but bolster up is more commonly used to refer to emotional or mental support, while build up is more often used to refer to physical strength or size.
Meanings and Definitions: bolster up vs build up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Bolster up
- 1Give support, reinforce, strengthen.
We were all scared but she BOLSTERED UP our courage.
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: bolster up, build up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
bolster up
Example
She always knows how to bolster up my confidence when I'm feeling down.
Example
He bolsters up his team's morale before every game.
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 Bolster up
prop up
To provide support or assistance to someone or something that is struggling or weak.
Example
She tried to prop up her friend who was going through a tough time by listening and offering advice.
cheer up
To make someone feel happier or more positive.
Example
He tried to cheer up his girlfriend by taking her out for a fun night on the town.
boost morale
To improve the confidence, motivation, or spirit of a group of people.
Example
The manager organized a team-building activity to boost morale and increase productivity.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Build up
To grow or progress over time, often through deliberate effort or practice.
Example
He worked hard to develop his skills as a musician and eventually became a professional.
To make something stronger or more resilient.
Example
She did exercises to strengthen her back muscles and reduce pain.
To increase the intensity, volume, or impact of something.
Example
The speaker used humor and personal anecdotes to amplify the message of her speech.
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 bolster up vs build up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: bolster up or build up?
In everyday conversation, build up is more common than bolster up. This is because build up can be used in a wider range of contexts, such as building up muscles, building up a business, or building up one's confidence. Bolster up, on the other hand, is mainly used in the context of emotional support or propping something up.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of bolster up and build up
Both bolster up and build up are informal phrases that are suitable for everyday conversations. However, build up may be slightly more formal than bolster up when used in professional or academic settings.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of bolster up and build up
The tone of bolster up and build up can differ based on context. Bolster up often carries a supportive or encouraging tone, while build up typically has a more neutral or matter-of-fact tone, especially when referring to physical strength or size.
bolster up & build up: Synonyms and Antonyms
Bolster up
Antonyms
