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live up to

B1 neutral inseparable transitive
In simple words

To be as good as people hoped or expected you to be

Meanings

1 B1 idiomatic neutral

To reach or match the standard or level of expectation that others have set

"The sequel didn't quite live up to the original film — most fans were disappointed."

Grammar: inseparable
2 B1 idiomatic neutral

To fulfil a promise or commitment that was made

"The government has failed to live up to its promises on climate change."

Grammar: inseparable
3 B2 idiomatic neutral

To prove yourself as good as a name, legacy, or reputation you carry

"Growing up with such a famous father, she always felt pressure to live up to the family name."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

Frequently used in both positive and negative forms — 'didn't live up to' is especially common in reviews, evaluations, and personal discussions. Common collocations: 'live up to expectations', 'live up to the hype', 'live up to one's potential'.

Commonly used with

expectations potential hype reputation promise name billing

Forms

Base
live up to
I/you/we/they
3rd person
lives up to
he/she/it
Past simple
lived up to
yesterday
Past participle
lived up to
have + pp
-ing form
living up to
continuous

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Synonyms

meet expectations match up to measure up to fulfil satisfy honour

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