Differences between lock up and summon up
Lock up means to secure a place or object by locking it, while summon up means to gather or collect one's thoughts or courage.
Meanings and Definitions: lock up vs summon up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Lock up
- 1Close all doors, windows, etc..
She LOCKED UP after everyone had left and went home.
- 2Lock something in a safe place.
I LOCKED my money UP in the safe.
- 3Put in prison or a mental hospital.
They LOCKED him UP for burglary.
Summon up
- 1Get the energy or courage to do something.
Andrea couldn't SUMMON UP the enthusiasm to apply for the position.
Usage Examples: lock up, summon up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
lock up
Example
Please lock up the office before you leave.
Example
She always locks up the house before going to bed.
summon up
Example
I need to summon up the courage to ask for a raise.
Example
She summons up the energy to go for a run every morning.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Lock up
To make something safe or protected from harm or theft.
Example
She always makes sure to secure her bike with a lock when she parks it outside.
To fasten or lock a door or window with a bolt.
Example
Before going to bed, he always bolts all the doors and windows to ensure his safety.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Summon up
gather one's thoughts
To take time to think and organize one's ideas or feelings.
Example
She needed a few minutes to gather her thoughts before giving her presentation to the board.
Differences in lock up vs summon up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: lock up or summon up?
In daily conversation, people use lock up more often than summon up. This is because lock up is used for more routine tasks such as locking doors or securing valuables. Summon up is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about gathering one's thoughts or courage. So, while both phrases are used, lock up is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of lock up and summon up
Lock up and summon 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 lock up and summon up
The tone of lock up and summon up can differ based on context. Lock up often carries a practical and cautious tone when related to securing objects or places, while summon up typically has an emotional or introspective tone, especially when referring to gathering one's thoughts or courage.
