Definitions

stepped up

[stept-uhp] / ˈstɛptˈʌp /

VERB

accelerate

Synonyms

STRONGEST

boost escalate hasten improve increase intensify quicken raise speed

WEAK

augment hurry lift shake up speed up up

Antonyms

STRONGEST

decrease diminish halt hurt lessen lower slow weaken

WEAK

decelerate hinder

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The U.S. stepped up exports of crude and also of products such as diesel, gasoline and jet fuels, with refineries running at the top of their capacity.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 9, 2026

This time they were undone by the skill of Nathan Smith who, like Jamieson in the first innings, stepped up to cover the limitations of Henry.

From BBC • Jun. 5, 2026

It also stepped up monitoring of shipments to employees’ homes, a spokesman said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 5, 2026

The previous laggards — staples, utilities, and technology — then stepped up to outperform.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 2, 2026

I’d noticed she had stepped up her work on it this week as she supervised my housework and needlework lessons.

From "The Red Car to Hollywood" by Jennie Liu