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Phrasal verbs "creep in" vs "creep up"

Differences between creep in and creep up

Creep in means to enter or appear gradually and unnoticed, while creep up means to approach or move closer slowly and often unexpectedly.

Meanings and Definitions: creep in vs creep up

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Creep in

  • 1Start to be noticeable.

    He tried to stay calm, but you could hear the anger CREEPING IN.

  • 2Get included despite attempts to keep it or them out.

    Errors CREPT IN as the text got longer.

Creep up

  • 1Gradually increase.

    The number of missing people has crept up to 40.

Usage Examples: creep in, creep up in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

creep in

Example

I didn't notice the mistake until it crept in later.

Example

She always double-checks her work, but sometimes a mistake still creeps in.

creep up

Example

The temperature started to creep up as summer approached.

Example

The cost of living creeps up every year.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Creep in

sneak in

To enter or appear somewhere quietly and without being noticed.

Example

The cat managed to sneak in through the open window and hide under the bed.

slip in

To enter or introduce something unnoticed or without attracting attention.

Example

He tried to slip in a joke during the meeting, but nobody laughed.

seep in

To enter or spread gradually and almost imperceptibly.

Example

The smell of freshly baked cookies started to seep in from the kitchen and fill the room.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Creep up

approach slowly

To move closer or nearer to something or someone gradually and deliberately.

Example

The hiker had to approach the summit slowly due to the steep terrain and thin air.

edge closer

To move gradually and cautiously towards something or someone.

Example

The cat edged closer to the bird feeder, hoping to catch a glimpse of the birds.

inch forward

To move forward very slowly and carefully, often in small increments.

Example

The car had to inch forward in the traffic jam, as there was no space to maneuver.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “in”

Phrasal Verbs with “up”

Differences in creep in vs creep up: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: creep in or creep up?

Both phrases are commonly used in everyday conversation, but creep up is slightly more common. It's often used to describe unexpected situations or events that arise, while creep in is used more to describe the gradual appearance of something.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of creep in and creep up

Creep in and creep up are informal phrases suitable for casual conversations. However, creep up can be used in more formal settings like business or academic contexts to describe a gradual increase or improvement.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of creep in and creep up

The tone of creep in and creep up can differ based on context. Creep in often carries a negative connotation when referring to something unwelcome or unwanted that appears gradually, while creep up can have a neutral or positive tone when describing a gradual improvement or approach.

creep in & creep up: Synonyms and Antonyms

Creep in

Synonyms

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