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Phrasal verbs "hang it up" vs "step up"

Differences between hang it up and step up

Hang it up means to quit or retire from something, while step up means to take action or responsibility for something.

Meanings and Definitions: hang it up vs step up

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Hang it up

  • 1Retire, quit.

    I'm getting too old for this- I'm going to HANG IT UP starting next month.

Step up

  • 1Increase.

    The police have STEPPED UP the pressure on beggars working the Underground.

Usage Examples: hang it up, step up in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

hang it up

Example

After 30 years of teaching, she decided to hang it up and enjoy her retirement.

Example

He hangs it up after a long and successful career in the military.

step up

Example

We need to step up our efforts to meet the deadline.

Example

She steps up her game when the competition gets tough.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hang it up

throw in the towel

To give up or quit something, usually after a long struggle or effort.

Example

After months of trying to fix the old car, he finally threw in the towel and bought a new one.

call it quits

To stop doing something, usually because it's no longer enjoyable or profitable.

Example

After losing money for three consecutive quarters, the company decided to call it quits and shut down the business.

retire from

To stop working or participating in a particular activity, usually because of age or health reasons.

Example

After 40 years of teaching, she decided to retire from her position and enjoy her retirement.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Step up

take the initiative

To be proactive and take action without being prompted or asked.

Example

She always takes the initiative to organize events and bring people together.

rise to the occasion

To meet a challenge or difficult situation with determination and success.

Example

When the team leader was absent, he rose to the occasion and led the group to complete the project on time.

shoulder the responsibility

To accept and take on a duty or obligation, usually when others are unwilling or unable to do so.

Example

As the manager, he shouldered the responsibility of resolving the conflict between two employees and finding a solution that worked for everyone.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “hang”

Phrasal Verbs with “up”

Differences in hang it up vs step up: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: hang it up or step up?

In daily conversation, people use step up more often than hang it up. This is because step up is used in a variety of situations where someone needs to take charge or do something, while hang it up is more specific to quitting or retiring. So, while both phrases are used, step up is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of hang it up and step up

Hang it up and step 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 hang it up and step up

The tone of hang it up and step up can differ based on context. Hang it up often carries a resigned or defeated tone when related to quitting or retiring, while step up typically has a confident and assertive tone, especially when referring to taking action or responsibility.

hang it up & step up: Synonyms and Antonyms

Hang it up

Synonyms

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