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Phrasal verbs "step up" vs "work up"

Differences between step up and work up

Step up means to increase or improve something, while work up means to gradually develop or build up something.

Meanings and Definitions: step up vs work up

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Step up

  • 1Increase.

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

Work up

  • 1To generate or develop (a feeling or emotion).

    I just can’t work up any enthusiasm for this trip.

  • 2To become very excited or emotional.

    The kids had worked themselves up to a fever pitch of excitement.

  • 3To develop or increase.

    We went for a long walk to work up an appetite.

Usage Examples: step up, work up in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

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.

work up

Example

She tried to work up the courage to speak in front of the audience.

Example

He works up the energy to go for a run every morning.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Step up

put in more effort

To increase the amount of work or energy put into something.

Example

If we want to finish this project on time, we need to put in more effort and work longer hours.

take charge

To assume control or responsibility for a situation or task.

Example

After the manager resigned, John had to take charge of the team and make important decisions.

rise to the occasion

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

Example

When the company faced financial difficulties, the CEO rose to the occasion and implemented effective cost-cutting measures.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Work up

build up

To gradually develop or increase something over time.

Example

He had to build up his stamina before running a marathon by training regularly and increasing his distance gradually.

develop a skill

To acquire or improve a specific ability or talent through practice and experience.

Example

She had to develop her writing skills by reading more and practicing different writing styles.

prepare oneself for

To get ready or train for a specific event or situation.

Example

He had to prepare himself for the interview by researching the company and practicing his answers.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “up”

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

Frequency in Daily Use: step up or work up?

In daily conversation, people use step up more often than work up. This is because step up is used for more common situations such as increasing effort or taking responsibility. Work up is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about developing a skill or building up to something. So, while both phrases are used, step up is more common in everyday conversation.

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

Step up and work 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 step up and work up

The tone of step up and work up can differ based on context. Step up often carries a sense of urgency or responsibility when related to increasing effort or taking charge, while work up typically has a gradual and patient tone, especially when referring to developing a skill or building up to a goal.

step up & work up: Synonyms and Antonyms

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