Differences between measure up to and play up to
Measure up to means to meet expectations or standards, while play up to means to flatter or try to please someone in order to gain an advantage.
Meanings and Definitions: measure up to vs play up to
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Measure up to
- 1Find out the size of something.
They MEASURED UP the room.
Play up to
- 1Flatter someone.
I'm PLAYING UP TO my boss at the moment because I want the promotion.
- 2Behave in a way expected.
He's got a reputation for being trouble and PLAYS UP TO it.
Usage Examples: measure up to, play up to in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
measure up to
Example
The tailor needs to measure up to the client's body for a perfect fit.
Example
She measures up to the furniture before buying it.
play up to
Example
She always plays up to her teachers to get better grades.
Example
He plays up to his boss to get a raise.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Measure up to
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Play up to
brown-nose
To flatter or suck up to someone in order to gain an advantage.
Example
He's always brown-nosing the boss to get ahead in the company.
butter up
To flatter or praise someone excessively in order to gain their favor or approval.
Example
She tried to butter up her professor by complimenting his lectures and asking for extra credit.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “measure”
Phrasal Verbs with “play”
Phrasal Verbs with “up to”
Differences in measure up to vs play up to: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: measure up to or play up to?
In everyday conversation, measure up to is more common than play up to. Measure up to is used in a variety of contexts, such as work, school, and personal relationships. Play up to is less common and is usually used in specific situations where someone is trying to gain favor or influence.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of measure up to and play up to
Measure up to and play up to are both informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, play up to can be seen as manipulative or insincere in certain contexts, so it may not be appropriate in formal settings.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of measure up to and play up to
The tone of measure up to is generally neutral or positive, as it refers to meeting expectations or standards. The tone of play up to can be negative or positive, depending on the context. It can be seen as flattering or manipulative, but it can also be seen as friendly or sociable.
