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

From MarketWatch • Jun. 2, 2026

PSG, known for their ability to press intensely and often in a man-to-man fashion, stepped up to Arsenal as they looked to build out from the back.

From BBC • May 30, 2026

Kyiv has recently expanded its drone capabilities and stepped up strikes on conventional Russian territories as well, including residential areas and oil export infrastructure.

From Barron's • May 23, 2026

Since relations with the U.S. have deteriorated, the Cuban government has stepped up what it calls national days of defense to practice repelling invaders.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 22, 2026

As soon as they stepped up to the elevator, the door opened.

From "Boy 2.0" by Tracey Baptiste