Help center

Phrasal verbs "call up" vs "step up"

Differences between call up and step up

Call up usually means to make a phone call or to bring something to mind, whereas step up generally means to increase one's efforts or take action to address a situation.

Meanings and Definitions: call up vs step up

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Call up

  • 1Summon someone for military service.

    The army CALLED UP the reserve soldiers when the war broke out.

  • 2Telephone.

    I CALLED him UP as soon as I got to a phone to tell him the news.

Step up

  • 1Increase.

    The police have STEPPED UP the pressure on beggars working the Underground.

Usage Examples: call up, step up in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

call up

Example

I need to call up my mom to check on her.

Example

She calls up her sister every weekend.

step up

Example

We need to step up our efforts to meet the deadline.

Example

She steps up her game when the competition gets tough.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Call up

ring up

To make a phone call to someone.

Example

I need to ring up my friend to confirm our plans for tonight.

bring to mind

To remember or recall something from the past.

Example

The smell of freshly baked cookies brings to mind my grandmother's kitchen.

evoke

To bring a feeling, memory, or image to mind.

Example

The painting evokes a sense of peace and tranquility.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Step up

take action

To do something to address a situation or problem.

Example

It's time to take action and implement changes to improve our company's performance.

make an effort

To try hard to achieve something or improve a situation.

Example

We need to make an effort to reduce our carbon footprint and protect the environment.

rise to the occasion

To meet a challenge or difficult situation with determination and success.

Example

Despite the pressure, she rose to the occasion and delivered an outstanding presentation.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “call”

Phrasal Verbs with “step”

Phrasal Verbs with “up”

Differences in call up vs step up: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: call up or step up?

In daily conversation, people use call up more often than step up. This is because call up is used for more routine tasks such as making a phone call or recalling a memory. Step up is not used as much in everyday conversation. It's mainly used when we're talking about taking action or increasing effort. So, while both phrases are used, call up is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of call up and step up

Call up and step 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 call up and step up

The tone of call up and step up can differ based on context. Call up often carries a neutral or nostalgic tone when related to making a phone call or recalling a memory, while step up typically has a serious and urgent tone, especially when referring to taking action or addressing a problem.

call up & step up: Synonyms and Antonyms

This content was generated with the assistance of AI technology based on RedKiwi's unique learning data. By utilizing automated AI content, we can quickly deliver a wide range of highly accurate content to users. Experience the benefits of AI by having your questions answered and receiving reliable information!