Differences between polish up and touch up
Polish up and touch up are both phrasal verbs that refer to improving or refining something, but polish up is used more for improving skills or abilities, while touch up is used more for improving the appearance of something.
Meanings and Definitions: polish up vs touch up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Polish up
- 1Improve something quickly.
I need to POLISH UP my French before I go to Paris.
Touch up
- 1Improve the appearance of something.
I couldn't be bothered to redecorate, so I just TOUCHED UP the bits that needed painting the most.
- 2Touch someone in a sexual way.
She got angry when he tried to TOUCH her UP in the elevator.
Usage Examples: polish up, touch up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
polish up
Example
I need to polish up my presentation skills before the big meeting.
Example
She polishes up her piano skills before the recital.
touch up
Example
I need to touch up the paint on the door.
Example
She touches up her makeup before the party.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Polish up
To refine or improve a skill or ability through practice or experience.
Example
He spent years honing his craft as a chef before opening his own restaurant.
To improve or enhance a skill or ability through practice or training.
Example
She took a public speaking course to sharpen her communication skills for her new job.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Touch up
fix up
To repair or improve the condition or appearance of something.
Example
We need to fix up the old house before we can sell it.
To renovate or update something to make it look more modern or attractive.
Example
The company decided to revamp their website to attract more customers.
spruce up
To clean, decorate, or improve the appearance of something.
Example
She spent the weekend sprucing up her apartment before her guests arrived.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “polish”
Phrasal Verbs with “touch”
Phrasal Verbs with “up”
Differences in polish up vs touch up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: polish up or touch up?
Both polish up and touch up are commonly used in everyday conversation, but touch up is more frequently used when talking about fixing or improving the appearance of something. For example, we often use touch up when referring to retouching photos or fixing makeup. On the other hand, polish up is more commonly used when referring to improving skills or abilities, such as polishing up one's language skills or polishing up a presentation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of polish up and touch up
Both polish up and touch up are informal phrases that are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. However, in more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of polish up and touch up
The tone of polish up and touch up can differ based on context. Polish up often carries a positive and motivated tone when related to improving skills or abilities, while touch up typically has a practical and aesthetic tone, especially when referring to improving the appearance of something.
