Differences between fill up and work up
Fill up means to make something full, usually with a liquid or gas, while work up means to build up or develop something, such as an idea or emotion.
Meanings and Definitions: fill up vs work up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Fill up
- 1Fill something completely.
I stopped at the garage and FILLED UP with petrol.
Work up
- 1To generate or develop (a feeling or emotion).
I just can’t work up any enthusiasm for this trip.
- 2To become very excited or emotional.
The kids had worked themselves up to a fever pitch of excitement.
- 3To develop or increase.
We went for a long walk to work up an appetite.
Usage Examples: fill up, work up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
fill up
Example
Please fill up the water jug before the guests arrive.
Example
She fills up her car with gas every week.
work up
Example
She tried to work up the courage to speak in front of the audience.
Example
He works up the energy to go for a run every morning.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Fill up
load up
To fill something up with a large amount of items or goods.
Example
They decided to load up the car with snacks and drinks before heading to the beach.
stock up
To fill up a supply of something, especially food or household items, for future use.
Example
During the pandemic, many people decided to stock up on essential items like toilet paper and canned food.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Work up
To create or grow something gradually, especially a skill or talent.
Example
She started to develop her painting skills by practicing every day and attending art classes.
build up
To accumulate or increase something over time, especially strength, confidence, or momentum.
Example
He decided to build up his endurance by running every morning and gradually increasing the distance.
stir up
To provoke or stimulate a feeling or reaction, especially a negative one.
Example
The politician's speech stirred up controversy and criticism among the audience.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “fill”
Phrasal Verbs with “work”
Differences in fill up vs work up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: fill up or work up?
In daily conversation, people use fill up more often than work up. This is because fill up is used for more daily tasks and routines such as filling up a gas tank or a glass of water. Work up is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about building up something like an idea or emotion. So, while both phrases are used, fill up is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of fill up and work up
Fill up and work 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 fill up and work up
The tone of fill up and work up can differ based on context. Fill up often carries a practical and straightforward tone when related to filling something with a substance, while work up typically has a more emotional or intellectual tone, especially when referring to building up an idea or argument.
