step up
Do more, try harder, or take charge when something needs to be done.
Meanings
To take on more responsibility or show greater effort, especially in a challenging situation.
"When the team leader quit, Marcus stepped up and kept the project on track."
"We need you to step up."
— Barack Obama, various campaign and presidential speeches (widely cited phrase)
To increase the level, speed, or intensity of something.
"The factory has stepped up production to meet the holiday demand."
To move physically to a higher level or to move forward toward something.
"The winner was asked to step up to the podium to receive her medal."
To come forward voluntarily to do something, especially when others hesitate.
"Nobody wanted to organise the fundraiser, but Priya stepped up and offered to run it."
One of the most common and versatile phrasal verbs. 'Step up to the plate' (from baseball) means to accept a challenge. Can also mean physically moving up to a higher level. 'Step up production/output' is separable and transitive.
Commonly used with
Forms
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Synonyms
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