To gradually build the courage, ability, or momentum needed to do something demanding.
To slowly prepare yourself to do something difficult or scary.
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
To gradually build the courage or emotional readiness required to say or do something difficult.
"She had been working up to asking for a pay rise for months before she finally knocked on her manager's door."
To gradually increase physical effort or intensity to reach a higher level of performance.
"Start with short daily walks and work up to jogging three kilometres without stopping."
To work one's way upward towards a higher level or challenge — transparent.
To slowly prepare yourself to do something difficult or scary.
Often implies that the goal is emotionally or physically challenging and requires gradual preparation. Can refer to physical training ('work up to running 5km') or emotional readiness ('work up to having a difficult conversation'). Often used with gerunds ('work up to telling him the truth').
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
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