Phrasal verbs "clear up" vs "set up"

Differences between clear up and set up

Clear up means to make something clearer or to resolve a confusion, while set up means to establish or create something.

Meanings and Definitions: clear up vs set up

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Clear up

  • 1Cure or recover from an infection.

    I took the antihistamines and the rash CLEARED UP right away.

  • 2Tidy up.

    I'd better CLEAR AWAY the mess before leave.

  • 3Explain.

    Could you CLEAR these points UP before we go any further?

  • 4Improve ( weather ).

    The skies CLEARED UP and the sun came out.

Set up

  • 1Prepare equipment, software, etc., for use.

    The technician SET UP the computer network perfectly.

  • 2Start a company.

    They SET UP a dot com company, floated it a couple of years later on the Stock Exchange and made an absolute fortune.

  • 3Provide someone with the money needed to live.

    Winning the lottery SET them UP for life.

  • 4Trick, deceive.

    The police SET them UP.

Usage Examples: clear up, set up in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

clear up

Example

Please clear up the mess in the kitchen.

Example

She always clears up her room before going to bed.

set up

Example

Please set up the chairs before the guests arrive.

Example

She sets up her workspace every morning.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Clear up

To resolve or clarify a problem or confusion.

Example

I need to sort out this misunderstanding with my friend before it becomes a bigger issue.

To make something clearer or easier to understand by providing additional information or details.

Example

Can you explain the instructions again? I didn't quite understand the process.

To make something more understandable or less confusing by providing additional information or details.

Example

I need to clarify my doubts about the project with my supervisor before proceeding further.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Set up

To create or start something new, such as a business or organization.

Example

She wants to establish her own company and be her own boss.

To organize or plan something, such as a meeting or event.

Example

I need to arrange a meeting with my team to discuss the project's progress.

To assemble or create something by combining different parts or elements.

Example

He was able to put together a successful marketing campaign for the new product launch.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “clear”

Phrasal Verbs with “set”

Phrasal Verbs with “up”

Differences in clear up vs set up: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: clear up or set up?

In daily conversation, people use set up more often than clear up. This is because set up is used for more daily tasks and routines such as setting up a meeting or setting up a new business. Clear up is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about resolving a confusion or making something clearer. So, while both phrases are used, set up is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of clear up and set up

Clear up and set 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 clear up and set up

The tone of clear up and set up can differ based on context. Clear up often carries a helpful or informative tone when related to resolving a confusion or misunderstanding, while set up typically has a practical and proactive tone, especially when referring to establishing or creating something.

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