weaken up
C1 informal inseparable both
In simple words
To slowly become less strong or to make something less strong.
Meanings
1 C1 informal
To gradually reduce the strength, power, or resistance of something or someone.
"Months of negotiations weakened up the opposing side's resolve."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Non-standard and rarely used. The particle 'up' adds little semantic value here. Most native speakers would simply say 'weaken' or use 'soften up'. Learners are advised to prefer those alternatives.
Commonly used with
resistance structure muscle position
Forms
Base
weaken up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
weakens up
he/she/it
Past simple
weakened up
yesterday
Past participle
weakened up
have + pp
-ing form
weakening up
continuous
Understand "weaken up" better
Try:
Real video examples
Video examples are being collected. Check back soon.
Want to master this phrasal verb?
Practice "weaken up" on Looplines