Differences between step down and step up
Step down means to resign or give up a position of authority or responsibility, while step up means to take on more responsibility or increase one's efforts.
Meanings and Definitions: step down vs step up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Step down
- 1Leave a job or position so that someone can take over.
The CEO STEPPED DOWN after the share price dropped.
- 2Reduce.
Production is being STEPPED DOWN because demand has dropped.
Step up
- 1Increase.
The police have STEPPED UP the pressure on beggars working the Underground.
Usage Examples: step down, step up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
step down
Example
The manager decided to step down after many years of service.
Example
She steps down as the president of the company next month.
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 Step down
To formally give up a position of authority or responsibility.
Example
After the scandal, the CEO was forced to resign from his position.
To renounce or relinquish a position of power or responsibility.
Example
The king was forced to abdicate the throne after a popular uprising.
To voluntarily leave a job or position.
Example
After years of working at the company, she decided to quit and pursue her own business.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Step up
To assume additional duties or tasks.
Example
After the manager left, she had to take on more responsibility and oversee the entire department.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “step”
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
Differences in step down vs step up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: step down or step up?
In everyday conversation, step up is more commonly used than step down. This is because step up can be used in a variety of situations, such as taking on more work or increasing one's efforts, while step down is only used when someone is resigning from a position. However, both phrases are still used regularly.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of step down and step up
Step down and step up are both relatively formal phrases, often used in professional or business contexts. They are not typically used in casual conversations with friends or family.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of step down and step up
The tone of step down and step up can differ based on context. Step down often carries a tone of resignation or disappointment, while step up typically has a tone of determination or ambition.
