as in to intensify
to make markedly greater in measure or degree
candidates stepping up their campaigns as election day draws near stepped up the pace to catch up with the others
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
as in increase
something added (as by growth)
there's been a step-up in productivity since regular breaks were offered
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
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Recent Examples of step up
Jeff Miller, HollywoodReporter, 14 Apr. 2025
At the same time, a growing number of high-end hotels are stepping up to serve as hiking hubs.
—Mary Holland, Travel + Leisure, 13 Apr. 2025
The Athletic, 22 Mar. 2025
With the new administration in office, discussions around potentially eliminating the step-up in basis are gaining momentum.
—Cody Barbo, Forbes, 21 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for step up
Verb
This is the set to watch next weekend: rumors are the guests will be totally different, with Dave Grohl and Cynthia Erivo both rumored to be stepping up.
—Jeff Miller, HollywoodReporter, 14 Apr. 2025
At the same time, a growing number of high-end hotels are stepping up to serve as hiking hubs.
—Mary Holland, Travel + Leisure, 13 Apr. 2025
Noun
The biggest difference from last year to this year is the defensive step-up USC has taken.
—The Athletic, 22 Mar. 2025
With the new administration in office, discussions around potentially eliminating the step-up in basis are gaining momentum.
—Cody Barbo, Forbes, 21 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for step up
Recent Examples of Synonyms for step up
Verb
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Patterson’s departure likely will intensify UM’s efforts to find a starting caliber safety in the portal.—
Barry Jackson,
Miami Herald,
15 Apr. 2025
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In this context of uncertainty, competition intensifies on entry and middle market watches.—
Lily Templeton,
Footwear News,
14 Apr. 2025
Noun
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The value of the credits has increased rapidly as the state’s Public Utilities Commission approved rate increases requested by the companies.—
Melody Petersen,
Los Angeles Times,
21 Apr. 2025
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The university’s president was pushing controversial reforms, including a tuition increase.—
Stephania Taladrid,
New Yorker,
21 Apr. 2025
Verb
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By implementing regenerative agricultural practices, SRI focuses on enhancing soil health, conserving biodiversity, reducing chemical dependency, and promoting water conservation.—
Angela Velasquez,
Sourcing Journal,
10 Apr. 2025
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Multimillion-dollar residences on the stylish Soho strip enhance the neighborhood’s offerings, providing residents with unmatched dwellings.—
Demetrius Simms,
Robb Report,
10 Apr. 2025
Noun
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The fabric is known to be smoothing and super flattering, so expect this pair to deliver an extra boost of confidence.—
Genevieve Cepeda,
Travel + Leisure,
20 Apr. 2025
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The survey found that the boost in economic optimism that accompanied Trump’s reelection has disappeared, with more Americans now believing the economy will get worse than at any time since 2023 and with a sharp turn toward pessimism about the stock market.—
Steve Liesman,
CNBC,
19 Apr. 2025
Verb
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Research from psychologists Robert Emmons and Philip Watkins shows that gratitude, especially in moments of hardship, strengthens our emotional well-being and deepens our connections.—
Colin Bedell,
Them.,
18 Apr. 2025
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In today’s environment—where diners increasingly ask where food comes from—this trend gives operators a way to deepen authenticity, connection, and trust. #4 Diner Designed Menus that listen, meals that engage The rise of personalization isn’t new.—
Unilever Food Solutions Contributor,
Forbes.com,
18 Apr. 2025
Noun
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This also marks its third-biggest gain in post-WWII history.—
Amala Balakrishner,
CNBC,
9 Apr. 2025
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The move comes as the European Union considers rolling back recent gains made by climate activists.—
Jon McGowan,
Forbes.com,
9 Apr. 2025
Verb
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National security risks heightened in Great Lakes regions, expert says Jim Weakley, the president of the Lake Carriers' Association, which represents the interests of U.S. commercial shippers, discussed the national security risks present at the U.S.-Canadian border.—
Sarah Rumpf-Whitten,
FOXNews.com,
14 Apr. 2025
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While Istanbul was not impacted, the devastation in southern Turkey heightened fears of a similar quake with experts citing the city’s proximity to fault lines.—
Mehmet Guzel,
Chicago Tribune,
13 Apr. 2025
Noun
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Late Monday night, federal officials indicated that Harvard would be docked $2.2 billion in multiyear grants in addition to the cancellation of a $60 million contract due to its letter and failure to comply.—
Dan Pontefract,
Forbes.com,
15 Apr. 2025
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In addition to your favorite face SPF, dermatologists recommend the best after-sun lotions to hydrate your skin after sun exposure.—
Marilyn La Jeunesse,
Glamour,
14 Apr. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Step up.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/step%20up. Accessed 24 Apr. 2025.
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