work up

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.

To help diners work up an appetite before the game, Kieran is setting up goals in the lush grounds surrounding the castle.

From BBC • Jun. 5, 2026

When I’m ready to freshen up my fridge, I tend to work up a loose step ladder depending on my energy and the kind of week I’m having.

From Salon • Mar. 9, 2026

Because the person has not worked outside of the house, Trench and Jensen have them start with an entry-level receptionist job paying $45,000 a year, and work up from there.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 30, 2026

Given the current resources being devoted to oil tankers, they said the group can work up the information necessary to submit a seizure warrant to the court in a matter of weeks.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 23, 2025

It was like being given a maths problem when your brain’s exhausted, and you know there’s some far-off solution, but you can’t work up the energy even to give it a go.

From "Never Let Me Go" by Kazuo Ishiguro