Phrasal verbs "set up" vs "step up"

Differences between set up and step up

Set up means to prepare or arrange something, often for a specific purpose or event. Step up means to increase or improve one's efforts or actions in response to a challenge or situation.

Meanings and Definitions: set up vs step up

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

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.

Step up

  • 1Increase.

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

Usage Examples: set up, step up in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

set up

Example

Please set up the chairs before the guests arrive.

Example

She sets up her workspace every morning.

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 Set up

To organize or plan something in advance.

Example

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

To create or start something new, such as a business or organization.

Example

He established a successful startup company with his innovative ideas.

To put in place or set up equipment or software.

Example

The IT team installed new software on all the company's computers.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Step up

To meet a challenge or difficult situation with determination and effort.

Example

She rose to the occasion and delivered an excellent presentation despite feeling nervous.

To increase the amount of time, energy, or resources devoted to a task or goal.

Example

He realized he needed to put in more effort if he wanted to pass the exam.

step it up

To increase one's efforts or actions, often in response to a challenge or situation.

Example

The coach told the team they needed to step it up if they wanted to win the game.

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 set up vs step up: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: set up or step up?

Both set up and step up are commonly used in everyday conversation, but set up is more frequently used than step up. This is because set up can be used in a variety of situations, such as setting up a meeting or setting up a new business, while step up is more specific to situations where someone needs to increase their efforts or actions.

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

Set up and step up are both informal phrases that are suitable for everyday conversations. However, in more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more professional tone.

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

The tone of set up and step up can differ based on context. Set up often carries a practical or organizational tone, while step up typically has a motivational or encouraging tone, especially when referring to increasing one's efforts or actions.

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