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.

Guterres called for stepped-up diplomatic efforts to find a peaceful solution and said his personal envoy, Jean Arnault, was travelling to the region to support them.

From BBC • Apr. 7, 2026

In her view, stepped-up enforcement has helped, but more can be done.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 13, 2026

Iran has stepped-up its attacks in and around the Strait of Hormuz, effectively shutting the world’s most important energy transport route.

From Barron's • Mar. 12, 2026

Police departments across the region have pointed to a pattern of speeding, red light violations, and minors riding illegal electric motorcycles, and several cities have responded with new ordinances and stepped-up enforcement.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 4, 2026

Meanwhile the Niccola’s twenty-four rocket tubes and stepped-up drive and computer-type radar system equipped her for Plumie-hunting as well as any human ship could be.

From The Aliens by Dongen, H. R. van