Phrasal verbs "own up" vs "set up"

Differences between own up and set up

Own up means to admit or confess to something, usually a mistake or wrongdoing. Set up means to establish or create something, like a business or a plan.

Meanings and Definitions: own up vs set up

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Own up

  • 1Confess.

    Nobody OWNED UP to breaking the window.

Set up

  • 1Prepare equipment, software, etc., for use.

    The technician SET UP the computer network perfectly.

  • 2Start a company.

    They SET UP a dot com company, floated it a couple of years later on the Stock Exchange and made an absolute fortune.

  • 3Provide someone with the money needed to live.

    Winning the lottery SET them UP for life.

  • 4Trick, deceive.

    The police SET them UP.

Usage Examples: own up, set up in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

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.

set up

Example

Please set up the chairs before the guests arrive.

Example

She sets up her workspace every morning.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Own up

To admit or acknowledge something, usually a mistake or wrongdoing.

Example

He finally confessed to stealing the money from the cash register.

To confess or tell the truth about something that was previously hidden or kept secret.

Example

After months of lying, she finally decided to come clean about her involvement in the scandal.

fess up

To confess or admit to something, usually a mistake or wrongdoing.

Example

It's time for you to fess up and tell the truth about what happened.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Set up

To create or start something, like a business or an organization.

Example

They established a new company that specializes in eco-friendly products.

To organize or plan something in advance.

Example

She arranged a surprise party for her best friend's birthday.

To assemble or create something by combining different parts or elements.

Example

He put together a detailed proposal for the new project.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “set”

Phrasal Verbs with “up”

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

Frequency in Daily Use: own up or set up?

In daily conversation, people use own up more often than set up. This is because admitting to mistakes or wrongdoings is a common occurrence in everyday life, while setting up a business or a plan is not as common. However, both phrases are used in different contexts and situations.

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

Own up and set up are both informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, set up can also be used in formal settings like business or academic contexts.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of own up and set up

The tone of own up is usually serious or remorseful, while the tone of set up is usually practical or strategic.

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