Differences between sweep up and rake up
Sweep up means to clean or tidy a surface by using a broom or brush to collect dirt, dust, or debris into a pile. Rake up means to gather leaves, grass, or other debris from the ground using a rake.
Meanings and Definitions: sweep up vs rake up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Sweep up
- 1To clean or tidy up by using a broom or a vacuum cleaner.
I’m going to sweep up.
- 2To clean or tidy up by using a broom or brush.
Would you sweep up the broken glass?
Rake up
- 1Bring something back to people's attention.
The have RAKED UP some press scandals from her past.
Usage Examples: sweep up, rake up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
sweep up
Example
Please sweep up the kitchen floor after dinner.
Example
She sweeps up the living room every day.
rake up
Example
The journalist decided to rake up the politician's past mistakes.
Example
She rakes up old arguments whenever they have a disagreement.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Sweep up
clean up
To make a place or object clean and free of dirt, dust, or clutter.
Example
After the party, we had to clean up the living room and wash the dishes.
tidy up
To organize or arrange things in a neat and orderly way.
Example
She always tidies up her desk before leaving the office to start fresh the next day.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Rake up
gather up
To collect or assemble things that are scattered or spread out.
Example
We need to gather up all the tools and materials before starting the project.
pick up
To collect or retrieve something from the ground or a surface.
Example
He bent down to pick up the coin he dropped on the sidewalk.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “sweep”
Phrasal Verbs with “rake”
Phrasal Verbs with “up”
Differences in sweep up vs rake up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: sweep up or rake up?
In daily conversation, people use sweep up more often than rake up. This is because sweep up is used for more routine cleaning tasks such as sweeping the floor or cleaning up after cooking. Rake up is less common and is mainly used when talking about yard work or gardening.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of sweep up and rake up
Sweep up and rake 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 sweep up and rake up
The tone of sweep up and rake up can differ based on context. Sweep up often carries a practical and efficient tone when referring to cleaning or tidying, while rake up typically has a more leisurely or outdoor tone, especially when referring to gardening or yard work.
