Differences between crank up and wind up
Crank up and wind up are both phrasal verbs that refer to increasing the intensity or volume of something, but crank up is used for machines or devices, while wind up is used for people or situations.
Meanings and Definitions: crank up vs wind 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.
Wind up
- 1Close a company because it's unprofitable.
The company was WOUND UP when the creditors demanded payment.
- 2Tighten the spring in a watch or clock to make it work.
I forgot to WIND UP my alarm clock and overslept.
- 3Irritate someone or increase their stress level, especially if done deliberately.
The children are really WINDING me UP.
Usage Examples: crank up, wind 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.
wind up
Example
Don't forget to wind up your watch before you go to bed.
Example
She winds up her alarm clock every night.
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 production or activity of something.
Example
The company needs to ramp up its marketing efforts to reach more customers.
boost up
To increase or improve the performance or effectiveness of something.
Example
Adding more RAM can boost up your computer's speed and performance.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Wind up
get worked up
To become upset, angry, or agitated about something.
Example
Don't get worked up over small things. It's not worth it.
end up
To arrive at a particular place or situation, often unexpectedly or unintentionally.
Example
I took the wrong bus and ended up in a different part of town.
wrap up
To finish or complete something, often a task or project.
Example
Let's wrap up this meeting and discuss the next steps later.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “crank”
Phrasal Verbs with “wind”
- wind on
- wind down
Phrasal Verbs with “up”
- straighten up
- line up
- dry up
- clag up
- belt up
Differences in crank up vs wind up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: crank up or wind up?
In everyday conversation, crank up is more common than wind up. This is because crank up is used in a variety of contexts, such as music, cars, and machines. Wind up is less common and usually used in specific situations, such as when someone is getting angry or frustrated.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of crank up and wind up
Crank up and wind up are both informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, crank up can be used in more formal settings, such as when discussing technical specifications of machines or equipment.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of crank up and wind up
The tone of crank up and wind up can differ based on context. Crank up often carries a positive or enthusiastic tone when referring to music or machines, while wind up typically has a negative or frustrated tone, especially when referring to people or situations.
