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Phrasal verbs "start up" vs "strike up"

Differences between start up and strike up

Start up means to begin or initiate something, especially a business or a machine. On the other hand, strike up means to begin a conversation or relationship with someone.

Meanings and Definitions: start up vs strike up

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Start up

  • 1Open a business.

    The firm STARTED UP on a shoestring budget.

  • 2Begin, especially sounds.

    There was a pause, then the noise STARTED UP again.

  • 3When an engine starts working.

    The car STARTED UP first time.

  • 4Make an engine work.

    I STARTED the car UP.

  • 5Sit or stand upright because someone has surprised you.

    He STARTED UP when I entered the room and tried to hide what he was doing.

Strike up

  • 1Start ( conversation, relationship ).

    He STRUCK UP a conversation with me in the bar.

  • 2Start performing music.

    The band STRUCK UP and everyone turned to listen.

Usage Examples: start up, strike up in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

start up

Example

They plan to start up a new online store.

Example

She starts up her computer every morning.

strike up

Example

She struck up a conversation with the stranger at the party.

Example

He strikes up a conversation with his neighbor every morning.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Start up

launch

To start or introduce something new, especially a product or service.

Example

The company plans to launch a new line of eco-friendly products next month.

boot up

To start or turn on a computer or device.

Example

He waited patiently for his laptop to boot up so he could start working.

commence

To begin or start something, especially a formal event or ceremony.

Example

The graduation ceremony will commence at 10 am sharp.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Strike up

initiate a conversation

To start or begin a conversation with someone.

Example

He decided to initiate a conversation with his new neighbor to get to know her better.

break the ice

To initiate a conversation or interaction to ease tension or awkwardness.

Example

She tried to break the ice by asking him about his favorite hobby.

make contact

To initiate communication or establish a connection with someone.

Example

He was finally able to make contact with his long-lost friend through social media.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “up”

Differences in start up vs strike up: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: start up or strike up?

In daily conversation, people use start up more often than strike up. This is because start up is used for more daily tasks and routines such as starting a car or a computer. Strike up is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about initiating a conversation or relationship. So, while both phrases are used, start up is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of start up and strike up

Start up and strike 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 start up and strike up

The tone of start up and strike up can differ based on context. Start up often carries a practical or technical tone when related to initiating a business or machine, while strike up typically has a friendly and social tone, especially when referring to initiating a conversation or relationship.

start up & strike up: Synonyms and Antonyms

Start up

Antonyms

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