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Phrasal verbs "catch up" vs "square up"

Differences between catch up and square up

Catch up means to reach the same level or status as someone or something else, often after falling behind. Square up means to settle a debt or dispute, usually by paying what is owed.

Meanings and Definitions: catch up vs square up

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

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.

Square up

  • 1Pay back a debt.

    Can I SQUARE UP with you for last night?

  • 2Confront someone or prepare to fight them.

    The companies are SQUARING UP for a fight.

Usage Examples: catch up, square up in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

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.

square up

Example

I need to square up with my friend for the concert tickets.

Example

He squares up with his roommate for the utility bills every month.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Catch up

get up to speed

To become informed or knowledgeable about a topic or situation.

Example

I need to get up to speed on the latest developments before the meeting tomorrow.

make up for lost time

To work harder or faster than usual to compensate for a period of inactivity or delay.

Example

After being sick for a week, she had to make up for lost time to finish the project on time.

keep up with

To stay at the same level or pace as someone or something else.

Example

It's hard to keep up with all the changes happening in the industry, but I try my best to stay informed.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Square up

settle the score

To resolve a conflict or dispute, often by getting revenge or retribution.

Example

He wanted to settle the score with his former business partner after they had a falling out.

pay off a debt

To repay money that is owed to someone else.

Example

He finally paid off his debt to the bank after years of struggling financially.

make amends

To do something to show remorse or apologize for a mistake or wrongdoing.

Example

She tried to make amends with her friend after they had a fight over something trivial.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “up”

Differences in catch up vs square up: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: catch up or square up?

In daily conversation, people use catch up more often than square up. This is because catch up is used in a variety of contexts, such as work, school, and social situations. Square up is less common and usually only used when discussing financial matters or resolving conflicts.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of catch up and square up

Catch up and square up are both informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, square up may be slightly more formal because it is often used in business or legal contexts.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of catch up and square up

The tone of catch up and square up can differ based on context. Catch up often carries a positive or neutral tone when referring to catching up with friends or work. Square up, on the other hand, can carry a negative or confrontational tone when referring to settling a debt or dispute.

catch up & square up: Synonyms and Antonyms

Catch up

Synonyms

Antonyms

Square up

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