Differences between creep up and crop up
Creep up and crop up are both phrasal verbs that describe something unexpected happening, but creep up implies a gradual or slow increase, while crop up suggests a sudden and unexpected appearance.
Meanings and Definitions: creep up vs crop up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Creep up
- 1Gradually increase.
The number of missing people has crept up to 40.
Crop up
- 1Appear unexpectedly.
I'm going to be late tonight as something has just CROPPED UP at work.
Usage Examples: creep up, crop up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
creep up
Example
The temperature started to creep up as summer approached.
Example
The cost of living creeps up every year.
crop up
Example
I hope no problems crop up during the event.
Example
She always has a solution when a problem crops up.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Creep up
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Crop up
pop up
To suddenly appear or happen unexpectedly.
Example
A lot of new restaurants have popped up in the neighborhood recently.
spring up
To suddenly appear or emerge, often in large numbers.
Example
New housing developments have sprung up all over the city in the past year.
To suddenly and unexpectedly come into existence or become an issue.
Example
A problem with the plumbing unexpectedly arose just as we were about to start cooking dinner.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “creep”
Differences in creep up vs crop up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: creep up or crop up?
Both creep up and crop up are commonly used in everyday conversation, but crop up is slightly more common. It's often used to describe unexpected problems or issues that arise, while creep up is used more to describe a gradual increase in something.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of creep up and crop up
Both creep up and crop up are informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations with friends and family. However, in more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of creep up and crop up
The tone of creep up and crop up can differ based on context. Creep up often carries a negative or ominous tone when related to problems or issues, while crop up typically has a neutral or slightly positive tone, especially when referring to unexpected opportunities or events.
