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.

Meanwhile, it is still rolling out new products, trying to stand out in the supermarket frozen aisle, and has stepped up efforts to clean up its finances and regulatory disclosures.

From MarketWatch • May 6, 2026

The yen’s advance adds to sharp gains seen on Thursday after Japan’s finance minister stepped up warnings against speculators and signaled a potential intervention.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 1, 2026

Reyes was the only one who stepped up.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

The European Union has in recent months stepped up efforts to protect children online, with several member countries considering social media bans for under-16s.

From Barron's • Apr. 29, 2026

“Careful,” Natalie said as he stepped up onto the chair.

From "The Strangers" by Margaret Peterson Haddix