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quicken up

B1 informal inseparable both
In simple words

To go faster, or to make something happen more quickly.

Literal meaning: To make quick go up — to raise one's speed.

Meanings

1 B1 informal

To move or walk at a faster pace; to increase one's physical speed.

"The coach told the runners to quicken up as they approached the final lap."

Grammar: inseparable
2 B1 informal

To make a process or activity happen faster.

"We need to quicken up the approval process or we'll miss the deadline."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

A reinforced form of 'quicken,' where 'up' emphasizes an increase in rate. Used both literally (movement, pace) and figuratively (processes, developments). Slightly less common than 'speed up' or 'hurry up.' More common in British English than American. Often used as a direct command: 'Quicken up!'

Commonly used with

pace steps process heartbeat production progress

Forms

Base
quicken up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
quickens up
he/she/it
Past simple
quickened up
yesterday
Past participle
quickened up
have + pp
-ing form
quickening up
continuous

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