Differences between close up and look up
Close up usually means to shut something, like a store or a bag, or to move closer to something physically, while look up generally means to search for information or to direct one's gaze upward.
Meanings and Definitions: close up vs look up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Close up
- 1Completely close something.
They CLOSE UP the building after everyone has left.
- 2Join together.
The leaves CLOSE UP when it rains.
- 3Move closer together.
They CLOSED UP when they saw the gang coming towards them.
Look up
- 1Consult a reference work ( dictionary, phonebook, etc. ) for a specific piece of information..
I didn't know the correct spelling so I had to LOOK it UP in the dictionary.
- 2Improve.
The economy is LOOKING UP.
- 3Find, trace an old friend.
I LOOKED him UP when I went back to Cambridge.
Usage Examples: close up, look up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
close up
Example
Please close up the windows before you leave the house.
Example
She closes up the store every night at 9 pm.
look up
Example
When I don't know a word, I look it up in the dictionary.
Example
She looks up new recipes online every week.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Close up
zip up
To close or fasten a zipper on clothing or a bag.
Example
She asked her son to zip up his jacket before going outside in the cold weather.
pack up
To put things away or prepare to leave a place.
Example
After the party, they started to pack up the decorations and clean the house.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Look up
To investigate or study a topic or subject in-depth.
Example
She spent hours researching the best schools for her daughter to attend.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “close”
Phrasal Verbs with “look”
Differences in close up vs look up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: close up or look up?
In daily conversation, people use look up more often than close up. This is because look up is used for more common tasks such as searching for information online or finding a word in the dictionary. Close up is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about closing something. So, while both phrases are used, look up is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of close up and look up
Close up and look 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 close up and look up
The tone of close up and look up can differ based on context. Close up often carries a practical or urgent tone when related to closing a store or bag, while look up typically has a curious or interested tone, especially when referring to searching for information or learning something new.
