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Phrasal verbs "slow up" vs "wait up"

Differences between slow up and wait up

Slow up means to reduce the speed or pace of something, while wait up means to stop and wait for someone who is behind.

Meanings and Definitions: slow up vs wait up

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Slow up

  • 1Slow the progress of something.

    The negotiations were SLOWED UP by the arguments.

Wait up

  • 1Not go to bed because you are waiting.

    I was worried and WAITED UP until they got home safe and sound.

Usage Examples: slow up, wait up in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

slow up

Example

The heavy traffic slowed up our journey.

Example

The construction work slows up the traffic every morning.

wait up

Example

Please wait up for me; I'll be home soon.

Example

She always waits up for her husband when he works late.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Slow up

ease off

To reduce the intensity or pressure of something.

Example

He asked his boss to ease off the workload since he was feeling overwhelmed.

slacken the pace

To reduce the speed or tempo of something.

Example

The coach told the team to slacken the pace during practice to avoid injuries.

decelerate

To slow down or reduce the speed of something.

Example

The driver had to decelerate when approaching the red light.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Wait up

hold on

To wait for someone or something before proceeding.

Example

She asked her friend to hold on while she tied her shoelaces.

stay put

To remain in one place or position until further notice.

Example

The teacher told the students to stay put until the fire drill was over.

hang on

To wait for a short period of time.

Example

He asked the receptionist to hang on while he checked his schedule.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “slow”

Phrasal Verbs with “wait”

Phrasal Verbs with “up”

Differences in slow up vs wait up: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: slow up or wait up?

In daily conversation, people use wait up more often than slow up. This is because wait up is used in social situations when we want to make sure everyone is together. Slow up is not used as much, but it can be used in situations where we need to slow down or reduce the speed of something.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of slow up and wait up

Slow up and wait 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 slow up and wait up

The tone of slow up and wait up can differ based on context. Slow up often carries a serious or urgent tone when related to reducing speed or pace, while wait up typically has a friendly and casual tone, especially when referring to waiting for someone.

slow up & wait up: Synonyms and Antonyms

Slow up

Synonyms

Wait up

Synonyms

  • stay awake
  • stay up
  • remain awake
  • keep vigil

Antonyms

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