Phrasal verbs "crank up" vs "strike up"

Differences between crank up and strike up

Crank up means to increase the intensity or volume of something, while strike up means to start or initiate something, usually a conversation or relationship.

Meanings and Definitions: crank up vs strike up

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Crank up

  • 1Inject non - medical drugs.

    He's been CRANKING UP heroin for years.

  • 2Start a machine, originally with a handle.

    He CRANKED the saw UP.

  • 3Increase, make something bigger.

    I CRANKED the volume UP as high as it would go.

Strike up

  • 1Start ( conversation, relationship ).

    He STRUCK UP a conversation with me in the bar.

  • 2Start performing music.

    The band STRUCK UP and everyone turned to listen.

Usage Examples: crank up, strike up in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

crank up

Example

I always crank up the music when my favorite song comes on.

Example

She cranks up the heat in the car when it's cold outside.

strike up

Example

She struck up a conversation with the stranger at the party.

Example

He strikes up a conversation with his neighbor every morning.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Crank up

turn up

To increase the volume or intensity of something.

Example

Can you turn up the music? I can barely hear it.

ramp up

To increase the intensity or level of something, usually a process or activity.

Example

We need to ramp up our marketing efforts to reach more customers.

boost

To increase or improve something, usually performance or productivity.

Example

Drinking coffee in the morning helps me boost my energy levels and focus at work.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Strike up

start up

To begin or initiate something, usually a business or project.

Example

He decided to start up his own company after working in the industry for several years.

To initiate or start a conversation with someone.

Example

She sparked a conversation with her seatmate on the plane and they ended up becoming good friends.

To develop or nurture a relationship with someone over time.

Example

He worked hard to cultivate a relationship with his boss and eventually got promoted to a higher position.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “crank”

Phrasal Verbs with “up”

Differences in crank up vs strike up: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: crank up or strike up?

In daily conversation, people use crank up more often than strike up. This is because crank up is used for more daily tasks and routines such as turning up the volume on a stereo or increasing the heat on a stove. Strike up is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about starting a conversation or relationship. So, while both phrases are used, crank up is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of crank up and strike up

Crank up and strike 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 crank up and strike up

The tone of crank up and strike up can differ based on context. Crank up often carries an energetic or enthusiastic tone when related to increasing the intensity or volume of something, while strike up typically has a friendly and inviting tone, especially when referring to starting a conversation or relationship.

crank up & strike up: Synonyms and Antonyms

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