Differences between cover up and top up
Cover up means to hide or conceal something, while top up means to add more of something to fill it up to the top.
Meanings and Definitions: cover up vs top up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Cover up
- 1Conceal, try to stop people finding out.
They tried to COVER UP the incident but it got into the newspapers.
Top up
- 1Refill something that isn't empty yet.
Shall I TOP UP your drink while I'm pouring myself one?
Usage Examples: cover up, top up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
cover up
Example
The company tried to cover up the accident to avoid bad publicity.
Example
He always covers up his mistakes instead of admitting them.
top up
Example
Can you top up my coffee, please?
Example
She tops up her phone credit every month.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Cover up
To hide or keep something secret from others.
Example
She tried to conceal her disappointment when she didn't get the job.
To hide or disguise something by covering it up or making it appear different.
Example
He tried to mask his nervousness by smiling and acting confident.
To hide or blend in with the surroundings to avoid being seen or detected.
Example
The soldiers used natural materials to camouflage their position and avoid being spotted by the enemy.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Top up
To add more of a liquid or substance to a container that is running low.
Example
She asked the waiter to refill her glass of water since it was almost empty.
To add more of something to restore its original level or amount.
Example
He needed to replenish his energy by eating a healthy meal after a long day at work.
Differences in cover up vs top up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: cover up or top up?
In daily conversation, people use top up more often than cover up. This is because top up is used for more daily tasks and routines such as adding more fuel to a car or adding more credit to a phone. Cover up is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about hiding something. So, while both phrases are used, top up is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of cover up and top up
Cover up and top 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 cover up and top up
The tone of cover up and top up can differ based on context. Cover up often carries a negative or suspicious tone when related to hiding something, while top up typically has a practical and positive tone, especially when referring to adding more of something useful.
