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Phrasal verbs "step forward" vs "step up"

Differences between step forward and step up

Step forward means to move towards a particular direction or to take action in response to a situation, while step up means to increase one's efforts or take on more responsibility.

Meanings and Definitions: step forward vs step up

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Step forward

  • 1Offer help.

    When I had the accident, a lot of people STEPPED FORWARD to help me.

Step up

  • 1Increase.

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

Usage Examples: step forward, step up in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

step forward

Example

When the teacher asked for volunteers, several students stepped forward.

Example

She always steps forward to help her friends in need.

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 forward

take the initiative

To be proactive and take action without being asked or prompted.

Example

She decided to take the initiative and organize a fundraiser for the local animal shelter.

make a move

To take action or make a decision in response to a situation.

Example

He knew he had to make a move and apply for the job before the deadline.

come forward

To offer information or assistance in a situation, often related to a crime or investigation.

Example

After witnessing the accident, she decided to come forward and provide a statement to the police.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Step up

put in more effort

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

Example

In order to meet the deadline, they had to put in more effort and work overtime.

rise to the occasion

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

Example

Despite the unexpected obstacles, she was able to rise to the occasion and deliver a successful presentation.

take on more responsibility

To accept additional duties or tasks that require more effort or skill.

Example

After the manager resigned, he had to take on more responsibility and oversee the department until a replacement was found.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “step”

Phrasal Verbs with “up”

Differences in step forward vs step up: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: step forward or step up?

Both phrases are commonly used in everyday conversation, but step up is slightly more common. It's often used in work or academic settings when someone needs to take on more responsibility or make more effort. Step forward is also used frequently, but it's more commonly used in situations where someone needs to take action or make a decision.

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

Both step forward and step up are informal phrases that are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. However, step up can also be used in more formal settings like business or academic contexts.

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

The tone of step forward and step up can differ based on context. Step forward often carries a confident or assertive tone when someone is taking action or making a decision, while step up typically has a determined or motivated tone, especially when someone is taking on more responsibility or making more effort.

step forward & step up: Synonyms and Antonyms

Step forward

Synonyms

Antonyms

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