as in to intensify
to make markedly greater in measure or degree
candidates stepping up their campaigns as election day draws near stepped up the pace to catch up with the others
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
as in increase
something added (as by growth)
there's been a step-up in productivity since regular breaks were offered
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of step up
Sam Knight, The New Yorker, 10 Jan. 2025
Mainland investors are stepping up their purchases of Hong Kong listings in the new year.
—Brendan Ahern, Forbes, 10 Jan. 2025
Deborah Vankin, Boston Herald, 21 Nov. 2024
During the video, Crewe shows the following exercises: Romanian deadlifts, Bulgarian split squats and other variations, leg presses, hip thrusts, step-ups using a box, and glute kickbacks.
—Stephan Pechdimaldji, Newsweek, 15 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for step up 
Verb
Phillips, who is no stranger to online abuse, has had to step up her security arrangements since being targeted by Musk’s tweets.
—Sam Knight, The New Yorker, 10 Jan. 2025
Mainland investors are stepping up their purchases of Hong Kong listings in the new year.
—Brendan Ahern, Forbes, 10 Jan. 2025
Noun
Do light step-ups a few inches high, mimicking climbing a set of stairs and that also helps with balance control and coordination.
—Deborah Vankin, Boston Herald, 21 Nov. 2024
During the video, Crewe shows the following exercises: Romanian deadlifts, Bulgarian split squats and other variations, leg presses, hip thrusts, step-ups using a box, and glute kickbacks.
—Stephan Pechdimaldji, Newsweek, 15 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for step up
Recent Examples of Synonyms for step up
Verb
-
Keep in mind, Venus will meet with Pluto in your sign on Feb. 7, which could intensify dynamics between you and a close friend or acquaintance.—
Valerie Mesa,
People.com,
1 Feb. 2025
-
The purge intensified Monday when, according to the New York Times, former IG office staffers were directed to surrender to their agencies work laptops, phones, parking decals, and ID cards.—
Andrew C. McCarthy,
National Review,
1 Feb. 2025
Noun
-
The Trevor Project, a suicide prevention organization for LGBTQ+ youth, reported a 33% increase in volume for its crisis line on Inauguration Day compared to the weeks leading up to Trump being sworn in as President.—
Solcyré Burga,
TIME,
27 Jan. 2025
-
More than 7,300 retail stores closed last year, a 57% increase from 2023, according to Coresight Research.—
Maria Sole Campinoti,
CNN,
27 Jan. 2025
Verb
-
Here’s what to look for: Includes 27 vitamins and minerals to enhance nutrition Smooth consistency when mixed with water Higher cost per serving Flavors may be too rich for some Huel Complete Protein powder is a solid all-around option for anyone looking for a balanced, quick nutrition boost.—
Jordan Galloway,
SELF,
30 Jan. 2025
-
Tennant explains that, in recent years, compression socks have become a staple for triathletes and marathon runners looking to enhance performance and recovery.—
Sandra Rose Salathe,
Flow Space,
30 Jan. 2025
Noun
-
Jovic provided a big boost off the bench, with 17 points (including three for four on three-pointers), to go along with six rebounds and four assists.—
Barry Jackson,
Miami Herald,
26 Jan. 2025
-
Following a hot start to the season, Atlanta has fallen back down to earth and is in need of a boost.—
Gordon G. Chang,
Newsweek,
25 Jan. 2025
Verb
-
These narratives — with their complementary arcs — also deepen our investment as viewers.—
Lovia Gyarkye,
The Hollywood Reporter,
25 Jan. 2025
-
These attacks have deepened the geopolitical divide, impacting global trade routes and exacerbating tensions in the region.—
Gordon G. Chang,
Newsweek,
25 Jan. 2025
Noun
-
The company completed the sale of its Maryland properties, resulting in a net loss of $356,000 for fiscal 2024, compared to a gain of $68,771,000 in fiscal 2022.—
Quartz Intelligence Newsroom,
Quartz,
29 Jan. 2025
-
In fact, white, Black, Hispanic and economically disadvantaged students all showed modest gains, on average.—
Jonaki Mehta,
NPR,
29 Jan. 2025
Verb
-
This misalignment heightens the risks of cardiovascular events and accidents, confirming the profound impact of light on our well-being.—
Maria Sokolina,
Forbes,
22 Jan. 2025
-
Strong Santa Ana winds and bone-dry conditions combined to heighten fire risks.—
Gary Robbins,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
21 Jan. 2025
Noun
-
With the free agency market also having slim pickings in March, in addition to the the Titans, Browns, and Giants, the Las Vegas Raiders, New Orleans Saints and even possibly the Indianapolis Colts are left in a difficult situation in evaluating the risk on these players.—
David Faris,
Newsweek,
3 Feb. 2025
-
The trade picture just gets a little skewed by the Dallas Mavericks getting only one first-round pick for Luka Dončić in addition to 31-year-old All-NBA big man Anthony Davis.—
Zach Harper,
The Athletic,
3 Feb. 2025
Thesaurus Entries Near step up
Cite this Entry
“Step up.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/step%20up. Accessed 5 Feb. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share