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go up

A2 neutral inseparable intransitive
In simple words

To move higher, to increase in price, to be built, or to suddenly burst into flames.

Literal meaning: To move upward.

Meanings

1 A2 neutral

To move to a higher physical position.

"She went up the stairs two at a time."

Grammar: inseparable
2 A2 idiomatic neutral

For prices, levels, or amounts to increase.

"The price of fuel went up again this month."

Grammar: inseparable
3 B1 idiomatic neutral

To catch fire suddenly and burn intensely (often 'go up in flames').

"The warehouse went up in flames in the early hours of the morning."

Grammar: inseparable
4 B1 idiomatic neutral

For a building or structure to be erected or constructed.

"New apartment blocks are going up all along the river."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

Extremely versatile and common. The price-increase sense dominates in news and everyday financial conversation. The fire sense ('went up in flames') is idiomatic and vivid. In British university usage, 'go up' can also mean going to university at the start of term.

Commonly used with

prices flames smoke stairs building temperature

Forms

Base
go up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
goes up
he/she/it
Past simple
went up
yesterday
Past participle
gone up
have + pp
-ing form
going up
continuous

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