Definitions

step up

[step-uhp] / ˈstɛpˌʌp /

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

NOUN

increase in rate or quantity

Synonyms

STRONG

boost increase raise rise

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.

“That’s why we have to step up and we have to draw the line,” Newsom said.

From Los Angeles Times • May 27, 2026

"Elected leaders need to step up... if we're going to have a successful Olympics."

From Barron's • May 27, 2026

I look at some of the physiques that step up on stage.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 22, 2026

This year will feature a step up with Nvidia’s new Vera Rubin platform, which is due to ship later this year.

From Barron's • May 20, 2026

If Mom wasn’t going to be around for Macy, then I needed to step up.

From "Keep It Together, Keiko Carter" by Debbi Michiko Florence