Differences between build up and show up
Build up means to gradually increase or strengthen something, while show up means to arrive or appear in a particular place.
Meanings and Definitions: build up vs show up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
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.
Show up
- 1Attend something or arrive somewhere.
Very few SHOWED UP at the meeting.
- 2Become clear or apparent.
The downturn in sales SHOWED UP in the company's accounts.
- 3Make someone feel embarrassed or ashamed.
He SHOWED us UP when he arrived drunk and started arguing.
Usage Examples: build up, show up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
build up
Example
He wants to build up his savings for a new car.
Example
She builds up her strength by exercising every day.
show up
Example
I hope they show up to the party on time.
Example
She always shows up early for meetings.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Build up
To grow or improve gradually over time.
Example
She worked hard to develop her skills and eventually became a successful artist.
To make something stronger or more powerful.
Example
Regular exercise can help strengthen your muscles and improve your overall health.
To gather or collect something over time.
Example
He was able to accumulate a large amount of wealth through smart investments and hard work.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Show up
To reach a destination or location.
Example
She arrived at the airport early to avoid any delays.
turn up
To appear or arrive unexpectedly.
Example
He turned up at the party without any prior notice.
make an appearance
To attend or show up at an event or gathering.
Example
She promised to make an appearance at the charity event to support the cause.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “build”
Phrasal Verbs with “show”
Phrasal Verbs with “up”
Differences in build up vs show up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: build up or show up?
In daily conversation, people use show up more often than build up. This is because show up is used for more common situations such as meeting someone or attending an event. Build up is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about gradual progress or development. So, while both phrases are used, show up is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of build up and show up
Build up and show 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 build up and show up
The tone of build up and show up can differ based on context. Build up often carries a positive or hopeful tone when related to progress or improvement, while show up typically has a neutral or casual tone, especially when referring to arriving at a location.
