arm up
B2 informal inseparable both
In simple words
Get weapons ready, or prepare to fight.
Literal meaning: To raise up one's arms (weapons) in preparation.
Meanings
1 B2 informal
To acquire or distribute weapons in preparation for conflict.
"Both sides began arming up in response to the rising border tensions."
Grammar: inseparable
2 B2
idiomatic
informal
To equip oneself with tools or knowledge in preparation for a challenge (figurative).
"She armed herself up with data and case studies before presenting to the board."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Used both literally (acquiring weapons) and figuratively (preparing for conflict or competition). Common in news reporting on conflicts. The reflexive sense ('arm themselves up') is also seen.
Commonly used with
militias forces population rebels nation civilians
Forms
Base
arm up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
arms up
he/she/it
Past simple
armed up
yesterday
Past participle
armed up
have + pp
-ing form
arming up
continuous
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