Differences between bring up and catch up
Bring up means to raise a topic or start a conversation about something, while catch up means to meet with someone after a period of time and update each other on what has happened in their lives.
Meanings and Definitions: bring up vs catch up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Bring up
- 1Mention.
They didn't BRING the subject UP at the meeting.
- 2Raise a child.
My parents BROUGHT me UP strictly.
- 3Be officially charged with a crime.
He was BROUGHT UP on charges of public intoxication.
Catch up
- 1Get work, etc, up to date..
I was ill for a fortnight and now I've got to CATCH UP on the work I missed.
- 2Reach someone who was ahead of you.
He started well, but I CAUGHT him UP on the third lap.
Usage Examples: bring up, catch up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
bring up
Example
She always brings up interesting topics during our meetings.
Example
He brings up important issues during the discussions.
catch up
Example
I need to catch up on my homework this weekend.
Example
She catches up on her favorite TV shows during the weekend.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Bring up
To refer to something briefly or indirectly in conversation.
Example
I didn't want to mention the issue, but it was necessary to address it.
To present or bring something new to someone's attention.
Example
Let me introduce you to my friend who shares your passion for hiking.
To initiate or start a discussion or debate about a particular topic.
Example
He raised the issue of climate change during the meeting, sparking a lively debate among the attendees.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Catch up
To establish contact with someone again after a period of time.
Example
After years of lost contact, they decided to reconnect and catch up on each other's lives.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “bring”
Phrasal Verbs with “catch”
Phrasal Verbs with “up”
Differences in bring up vs catch up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: bring up or catch up?
In daily conversation, people use catch up more often than bring up. This is because catching up with friends and family is a common social activity, while bringing up topics can be more situational. So, while both phrases are used, catch up is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of bring up and catch up
Bring up and catch 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 bring up and catch up
The tone of bring up and catch up can differ based on context. Bring up can have a serious or confrontational tone when raising sensitive topics, while catch up typically has a friendly and nostalgic tone, especially when referring to meeting up with old friends.
