Phrasal verbs "measure up" vs "own up"

Differences between measure up and own up

Measure up means to meet a certain standard or expectation, while own up means to take responsibility for something that one has done wrong.

Meanings and Definitions: measure up vs own up

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Measure up

  • 1Find the size of something.

    The estate agent MEASURED UP all the rooms.

  • 2Be good enough, meet the required standard.

    She didn't MEASURE UP in her probationary period, so we didn't extend her contract.

  • 3Be good enough.

    They made her a director, but she didn't MEASURE UP.

  • 4Be good enough or worthy of something.

    I hope to MEASURE UP TO the confidence you have in me.

Own up

  • 1Confess.

    Nobody OWNED UP to breaking the window.

Usage Examples: measure up, own up in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

measure up

Example

The tailor measured up the fabric for the new dress.

Example

He measures up the room to see if the new furniture will fit.

own up

Example

If you made a mistake, it's best to own up and apologize.

Example

She always owns up to her mistakes and learns from them.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Measure up

live up to

To meet or exceed expectations or standards.

Example

She always tries to live up to her parents' expectations by getting good grades and being responsible.

To meet the required standard or level of quality.

Example

The new employee's work didn't come up to scratch, so he was let go after the probation period.

be up to par

To be at an acceptable level of quality or performance.

Example

The team's performance wasn't up to par during the first half of the game, but they managed to turn it around in the second half.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Own up

fess up

To confess or admit to something that one has done wrong.

Example

After being caught stealing, he finally fessed up and apologized for his actions.

To accept responsibility for something that has gone wrong.

Example

Even though it wasn't entirely his fault, he decided to take the blame for the project's failure to protect his team members from criticism.

To admit or recognize that one has made a mistake or done something wrong.

Example

It's important to acknowledge fault and apologize when we hurt someone's feelings or make a mistake.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “up”

Differences in measure up vs own up: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: measure up or own up?

In daily conversation, people use own up more often than measure up. This is because own up is used when someone needs to admit their mistake or wrongdoing. Measure up is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about meeting a certain standard or expectation. So, while both phrases are used, own up is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of measure up and own up

Measure up and own 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 measure up and own up

The tone of measure up and own up can differ based on context. Measure up often carries a neutral or slightly negative tone when related to meeting expectations or standards, while own up typically has a serious and responsible tone, especially when referring to admitting mistakes or wrongdoing.

measure up & own up: Synonyms and Antonyms

Own up

Synonyms

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