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Phrasal verbs "move up" vs "step up"

Differences between move up and step up

Move up generally means to advance or progress to a higher position or level, while step up usually means to take action or make an effort to improve a situation.

Meanings and Definitions: move up vs step up

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Move up

  • 1Move to make space.

    Could you MOVE UP and let me sit down?

  • 2Move to a higher level.

    They MOVED her UP to senior management.

Step up

  • 1Increase.

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

Usage Examples: move up, step up in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

move up

Example

Please move up so I can sit down.

Example

She moves up the ladder of success quickly.

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 Move up

climb the ladder

To advance or progress in one's career or social status.

Example

She worked hard and was able to climb the ladder to become the CEO of the company.

rise through the ranks

To advance or progress in a hierarchical organization or system.

Example

He started as an intern and was able to rise through the ranks to become a senior manager.

move forward

To progress or advance towards a goal or objective.

Example

We need to move forward with our plans to expand the business and increase revenue.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Step up

take charge

To assume responsibility or leadership in a situation.

Example

When the manager was absent, she had to take charge of the team and make important decisions.

rise to the occasion

To perform well or effectively in a challenging situation.

Example

During the crisis, the team was able to rise to the occasion and find a solution to the problem.

put in extra effort

To work harder or longer than usual to achieve a goal or complete a task.

Example

In order to meet the deadline, we need to put in extra effort and work overtime if necessary.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “up”

Differences in move up vs step up: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: move up or step up?

Both move up and step up are commonly used in everyday conversation, but move up is more frequently used in professional or career-related contexts. On the other hand, step up is often used in situations where someone needs to take responsibility or show leadership.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of move up and step up

Both move up and step up are relatively informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, move up may be more appropriate in formal settings such as job interviews or business meetings.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of move up and step up

The tone of move up and step up can differ based on context. Move up often carries a positive and ambitious tone when related to career advancement or personal growth, while step up typically has a more urgent and proactive tone, especially when referring to taking action or solving a problem.

move up & step up: Synonyms and Antonyms

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