Differences between take up and use up
Take up means to start a new hobby, activity, or habit, while use up means to consume or exhaust a resource or supply.
Meanings and Definitions: take up vs use up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
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.
Use up
- 1Finish or consume all of something.
We USED UP all the olive oil.
Usage Examples: take up, use up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
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.
use up
Example
I always use up all the shampoo before buying a new bottle.
Example
She uses up all the milk in the fridge.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Take up
pick up
To learn or acquire a new skill or knowledge informally.
Example
He picked up Spanish by watching telenovelas and listening to music.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Use up
finish off
To consume or use the last portion of something.
Example
She finished off the cake by herself since no one else wanted a slice.
To use up or consume a resource or supply, often in a deliberate or calculated manner.
Example
The company expended all its resources to launch a new product line and gain market share.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “take”
Differences in take up vs use up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: take up or use up?
In daily conversation, people use use up more often than take up. This is because use up is used for more routine activities such as finishing food or using all the printer ink. Take up is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about starting something new. So, while both phrases are used, use up is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of take up and use up
Take up and use 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 take up and use up
The tone of take up and use up can differ based on context. Take up often carries an enthusiastic or curious tone when related to starting a new hobby or activity, while use up typically has a practical and sometimes negative tone, especially when referring to depleting resources or supplies.
