Differences between set up and take up
Set up means to arrange or establish something, while take up means to start doing a new activity or hobby.
Meanings and Definitions: set up vs take 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.
Take up
- 1Fill or occupy time or space.
An awful lot of my time at work is TAKEN UP with pointless bureaucracy nowadays.
- 2Make clothes shorter.
The trousers were too long so I TOOK them UP to make them fit.
- 3Start a new hobby, pastime, etc..
He TOOK UP squash as he felt he had to lose some weight.
Usage Examples: set up, take 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.
take up
Example
She decided to take up painting as a way to relax.
Example
He takes up a new hobby every year to challenge himself.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Set up
To organize or prepare something in advance.
Example
She arranged the flowers in a vase and placed them on the table.
To create or start something that will last for a long time.
Example
The company established a new branch in a different city to expand its reach.
To set up or put in place a device or equipment.
Example
He installed a new software program on his computer to improve his productivity.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Take up
pick up
To learn or acquire a new skill or knowledge.
Example
He picked up Spanish by watching movies and listening to podcasts.
To start doing something for the first time.
Example
She began painting as a hobby and discovered her passion for art.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “take”
Differences in set up vs take up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: set up or take up?
In daily conversation, people use set up more often than take up. This is because set up is used for more daily tasks and routines such as setting up a meeting or arranging furniture. Take up is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about starting a new activity or hobby. So, while both phrases are used, set up is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of set up and take up
Set up and take up are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of set up and take up
The tone of set up and take up can differ based on context. Set up often carries a practical or organizational tone when related to arranging or establishing something, while take up typically has an enthusiastic and curious tone, especially when referring to starting a new activity or hobby.
