Differences between summon up and take up
Summon up means to gather or collect something, usually courage or strength, while take up means to begin a new hobby, activity, or task.
Meanings and Definitions: summon up vs take up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Summon up
- 1Get the energy or courage to do something.
Andrea couldn't SUMMON UP the enthusiasm to apply for the position.
Take up
- 1Fill or occupy time or space.
An awful lot of my time at work is TAKEN UP with pointless bureaucracy nowadays.
- 2Make clothes shorter.
The trousers were too long so I TOOK them UP to make them fit.
- 3Start a new hobby, pastime, etc..
He TOOK UP squash as he felt he had to lose some weight.
Usage Examples: summon up, take up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
summon up
Example
I need to summon up the courage to ask for a raise.
Example
She summons up the energy to go for a run every morning.
take up
Example
She decided to take up painting as a way to relax.
Example
He takes up a new hobby every year to challenge himself.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Summon up
gather up
To collect or accumulate something, usually strength or courage.
Example
She had to gather up all her courage to speak in front of the large audience.
muster up
To summon or gather something, usually courage or energy.
Example
He had to muster up all his energy to finish the marathon.
To come together and support each other, usually in difficult times.
Example
The community rallied around the family after the tragic accident.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Take up
pick up
To learn or acquire a new skill or knowledge.
Example
He wanted to pick up a new language before traveling to Europe.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “take”
Phrasal Verbs with “up”
Differences in summon up vs take up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: summon up or take up?
In daily conversation, people use take up more often than summon up. This is because take up is used for more common activities such as starting a new hobby or taking on a new task. Summon up is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about gathering courage or strength. So, while both phrases are used, take up is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of summon up and take up
Summon up and take 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 summon up and take up
The tone of summon up and take up can differ based on context. Summon up often carries a serious or determined tone when related to gathering courage or strength, while take up typically has an enthusiastic and positive tone, especially when referring to starting a new hobby or activity.
