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liven up

B1 informal separable both
In simple words

To make something (or a person) more fun and full of energy.

Literal meaning: To put life into something — 'liven' is a causative form of 'live', and 'up' intensifies.

Meanings

1 B1 informal

To make a social event, atmosphere, or place more exciting and enjoyable.

"The DJ finally arrived and really livened up the party."

Grammar: separable
2 B1 neutral

To become more energetic, cheerful, or interesting (intransitive use).

"The discussion livened up once people started sharing personal stories."

3 B1 neutral

To add flavor, color, or interest to food, writing, or a visual design.

"She added a handful of fresh herbs to liven up the soup."

Grammar: separable
Usage notes

Can be used both transitively ('liven the party up') and intransitively ('the party livened up'). Very common in British English for describing social events, presentations, or cooking. The transitive form often takes the preposition 'with'.

Commonly used with

party presentation meeting dish atmosphere room

Forms

Base
liven up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
livens up
he/she/it
Past simple
livened up
yesterday
Past participle
livened up
have + pp
-ing form
livening up
continuous

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Synonyms

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