What are the definitions of “step up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Increase.
The police have STEPPED UP the pressure on beggars working the Underground.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “step up”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb step up is to increase or improve something, such as effort, intensity, or production. For example, it can mean increasing the pace of work, improving the quality of a product, or enhancing the performance of a team.
What are the different verb forms of “step up”?
| Root Verb | step up |
| Third Person Singular Present | steps up |
| Present Participle | stepping up |
| Simple Past | stepped up |
| Past Participle | stepped up |
Example
We need to step up our efforts to meet the deadline.
Example
She steps up her game when the competition gets tough.
Example
The company is stepping up its marketing campaign to attract more customers.
Example
The government stepped up security measures after the terrorist attack.
Example
The production has been stepped up to meet the increasing demand.
What kind of phrasal verb is “step up”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“step up” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
The team stepped up and performed better.
Example
The company stepped up its efforts to improve customer service.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“step up” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
The team stepped up and performed better.
Example
The company stepped up its efforts to improve customer service.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “step up”?
Good things to know
Does “step up” have an informal or formal tone?
Step up is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in professional settings, depending on the specific context.
