step up
/ˌstɛp ˈʌp/
Reviewed on
Type
Phrasal verb
Meaning
To increase the amount, speed, intensity, or level of something.
The factory stepped up production to meet the sudden surge in holiday demand.
Security was stepped up across the airport following the credible threat.
To come forward to take responsibility, offer help, or perform in a crisis.
Several volunteers stepped up when the organization needed emergency shelter coordinators.
Will anyone step up and manage the project while she is on leave?
To move physically onto a higher surface or closer to someone or something.
He stepped up to the podium and adjusted the microphone before speaking.
Please step up onto the scale so the nurse can record your weight.
How it's used
When this means “increase an amount or effort”
Both orders mean the same thing.
- step up efforts
- step efforts up
Say “stepped it up.” Not “step up it.”
The police department stepped up patrols throughout downtown.
When this means “volunteer or take responsibility”
- step up to the challenge
Say “stepped up to it.” Not “step it up.”
She stepped up to lead the team during the restructuring.
Collocations
- step up security
- step up production
- step up pressure
- step up to the plate
- step up to the podium
- step up to the counter
Synonyms
- intensify
- accelerate
- escalate
Antonyms
- scale back
- reduce
Idioms
step up one's game
improve performance or effort
The competition is fierce this year, so you need to step up your game.