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."
inseparable
live up to
B1 neutral inseparable transitive
To succeed in matching the standard, expectations, or reputation that is expected of you or something
In plain English
To be as good as people hoped or expected you to be
What does "live up to" mean?
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
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."
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."
inseparable
Usage tip
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'.
Words that pair with "live up to"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
expectations potential hype reputation promise name billing
How to conjugate "live up to"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
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
Hear "live up to" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "live up to" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "live up to"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
fulfil honour match up to measure up to meet expectations satisfy
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