Phrasal verbs "ratchet up" vs "step up"

Differences between ratchet up and step up

Ratchet up means to increase something gradually, usually in small increments, while step up means to increase something suddenly or significantly.

Meanings and Definitions: ratchet up vs step up

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Ratchet up

  • 1Increase.

    The media are trying to RATCHET UP the pressure on the president.

Step up

  • 1Increase.

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

Usage Examples: ratchet up, step up in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

ratchet up

Example

The company plans to ratchet up production to meet the growing demand.

Example

She ratchets up the volume when her favorite song comes on.

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 Ratchet up

To increase something gradually, usually in small increments.

Example

The company decided to increase salaries incrementally over the next few years.

To increase pressure or intensity on someone or something.

Example

The coach decided to turn up the heat during practice to prepare the team for the upcoming game.

To increase or intensify something, usually a conflict or problem.

Example

The disagreement between the two countries started to escalate into a full-blown crisis.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Step up

take it up a notch

To increase the level of effort or intensity.

Example

She decided to take it up a notch and train for a marathon instead of a half-marathon.

kick it up a gear

To increase the speed or intensity of something.

Example

The team decided to kick it up a gear and work longer hours to meet the project deadline.

To increase the standard or level of expectation.

Example

The new CEO decided to raise the bar for employee performance to improve the company's overall productivity.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “up”

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

Frequency in Daily Use: ratchet up or step up?

Both ratchet up and step up are commonly used in everyday conversation, but step up is more frequently used. This is because it's often used in situations where a sudden increase is needed, such as in emergencies or when there's a need for immediate action.

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

Both ratchet up and step up are informal phrases that are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. However, step up can also be used in more formal settings like business or academic contexts.

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

The tone of ratchet up and step up can differ based on context. Ratchet up often carries a gradual and measured tone, while step up typically has a more urgent and forceful tone.

ratchet up & step up: Synonyms and Antonyms

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