cross up
C1 informal separable transitive
In simple words
To trick or confuse someone, or to do the opposite of what you promised.
Literal meaning: The idea of drawing an X ('cross') over something, cancelling or blocking it.
Meanings
1 C1
idiomatic
informal
To confuse or bewilder someone by acting unexpectedly or inconsistently.
"His sudden change of plans completely crossed up the rest of the team."
Grammar: separable
2 C1
idiomatic
informal
To deceive or betray someone who trusted you; to go back on an agreement.
"He crossed up his business partner by selling the shares without telling him."
Grammar: separable
Usage notes
Primarily North American informal usage. Somewhat dated and not widely used in contemporary speech. Often implies an element of betrayal or deliberate deception.
Commonly used with
plans partner deal expectations ally
Forms
Base
cross up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
crosses up
he/she/it
Past simple
crossed up
yesterday
Past participle
crossed up
have + pp
-ing form
crossing up
continuous
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Synonyms
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