Differences between creep up and well up
Creep up and well up are two phrasal verbs that express different emotions. Creep up is used to describe a gradual increase in something, usually negative, while well up is used to describe a sudden and intense feeling of emotion.
Meanings and Definitions: creep up vs well up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Creep up
- 1Gradually increase.
The number of missing people has crept up to 40.
Well up
- 1Feel tears starting.
I felt tears WELLING UP when I heard the news.
- 2Feel an emotion strongly.
Anger WELLED UP inside us when we saw what they had done.
- 3Experience an emotion or feeling, start to cry.
Tears WELLED UP when I heard they had died.
Usage Examples: creep up, well 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.
well up
Example
Tears well up in her eyes when she watches a sad movie.
Example
He wells up every time he hears the national anthem.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Creep up
sneak up
To approach or appear suddenly and unexpectedly.
Example
The deadline for the project sneaked up on us, and we had to work overtime to finish it.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Well up
choke up
To become too emotional to speak or continue talking.
Example
She choked up when she saw the surprise party her friends had organized for her.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “creep”
Differences in creep up vs well up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: creep up or well up?
In everyday conversation, creep up is more common than well up. This is because creep up can be used in various contexts, such as describing the weather, prices, or problems. On the other hand, well up is mainly used to describe emotional situations, which are not as frequent in daily conversations.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of creep up and well up
Creep up and well up are both informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations with friends and family. However, well up may sound slightly more formal than creep up due to its association with deeper emotions.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of creep up and well up
The tone of creep up and well up can differ based on context. Creep up often carries a negative or ominous tone when referring to problems or issues that gradually increase. Meanwhile, well up typically has an emotional and intense tone, especially when referring to tears or feelings of love.
