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Phrasal verbs "build up to" vs "live up to"

Differences between build up to and live up to

Build up to is used when we talk about a gradual process or progression towards something, while live up to is used when we talk about meeting or exceeding expectations.

Meanings and Definitions: build up to vs live up to

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Build up to

  • 1Gradually progress towards.

    Give them time together and gradually build up to going out and leaving him in charge.

Live up to

  • 1Meet expectations or standards.

    The concert didn't LIVE UP TO my expectations.

Usage Examples: build up to, live up to in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

build up to

Example

We need to build up to the final presentation by practicing every day.

Example

She builds up to her marathon by increasing her running distance each week.

live up to

Example

I hope this new restaurant lives up to the hype.

Example

She always lives up to her parents' expectations.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Build up to

lead up to

To gradually progress towards a particular event or outcome.

Example

The tension between the two characters led up to a dramatic confrontation in the final scene.

work up to

To gradually prepare oneself for a challenging task or goal.

Example

She had to work up to running a marathon by training every day for months.

ramp up to

To increase in intensity or frequency over time.

Example

The marketing team had to ramp up their efforts in the weeks leading up to the product launch.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Live up to

meet expectations

To fulfill or satisfy the expectations or standards set by someone.

Example

The new employee was able to meet expectations by completing all tasks on time and with high quality.

measure up to

To be as good as or better than what is expected or required.

Example

The candidate's qualifications and experience measured up to the job requirements.

fulfill one's potential

To achieve the maximum level of success or excellence that one is capable of.

Example

With hard work and dedication, she was able to fulfill her potential and become a successful entrepreneur.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “build”

Phrasal Verbs with “live”

Differences in build up to vs live up to: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: build up to or live up to?

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

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of build up to and live up to

Build up to and live up to are both informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, live up to can be used in more formal settings as well.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of build up to and live up to

The tone of build up to is usually more anticipatory or expectant, while live up to is more evaluative or judgmental.

build up to & live up to: Synonyms and Antonyms

Build up to

Synonyms

  • progress towards
  • gradually approach
  • lead up to
  • work up to
  • develop towards
  • advance towards
  • culminate in

Live up to

Antonyms

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