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
Justina Lee,
CNBC,
3 July 2026
His failure to step up in the pocket and inconsistency in feeling pressure points allow edge rushers to swipe the ball out of his hands way too easily.
—
Barry Jackson,
Miami Herald,
3 July 2026
Jennifer Klump,
Verywell Health,
12 June 2026
The federal estate tax was effectively repealed for those who died in 2010 as a result of the Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001, although executors could elect to apply the estate tax rules to take advantage of the step-up in basis which would have otherwise been lost.
—
Kelly Phillips Erb,
Forbes.com,
23 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for step up
Verb
The latest attack by Russia comes as Kyiv has stepped up long-range drone strikes in Russia.
—
Justina Lee,
CNBC,
3 July 2026
His failure to step up in the pocket and inconsistency in feeling pressure points allow edge rushers to swipe the ball out of his hands way too easily.
—
Barry Jackson,
Miami Herald,
3 July 2026
Noun
These exercises included marching in place, stair step-ups, and fast bodyweight squats, all of which could be performed at home with no equipment and without dedicating a large block of time.
—
Jennifer Klump,
Verywell Health,
12 June 2026
The federal estate tax was effectively repealed for those who died in 2010 as a result of the Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001, although executors could elect to apply the estate tax rules to take advantage of the step-up in basis which would have otherwise been lost.
—
Kelly Phillips Erb,
Forbes.com,
23 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for step up
Recent Examples of Synonyms for step up
Verb
-
If employees are expected to produce the same output in less time without better systems in place, the pressure simply intensifies.
-
Europe's automotive industry faces a severe crisis, intensified by the EU's 2035 electric vehicle mandate and fierce Chinese competition.
Noun
-
Hispanics or Latinos were the target of the biggest increase in racially or ethnically motivated hate crimes, according to the report.
-
However, the report noted that much of this rise was due to an increase in the number of billionaires, not just three-comma club members getting richer.
Verb
-
More than 30 Will County schools will receive funds to enhance security thanks to $129,777 in grants awarded by the county from the state’s cannabis sales tax revenue.
-
Rainy weather driving tips Switch on headlights - Even during daylight hours, using headlights can enhance visibility and signal your presence to other drivers.
Noun
-
Local business owners welcomed the boost in business as Dodgers fans filled restaurants, hotels and entertainment districts throughout Sacramento and West Sacramento.
-
But while the sportswear giant remains the category leader by revenue, and the company is enjoying a FIFA World Cup boost for its soccer jersey sales, the momentum has shifted decisively away from Beaverton, Oregon.
Verb
-
Recent allegations of irregularities in government recruitment exams have only deepened frustrations among some young Indians.
-
South Korean officials and experts say the vessel was likely built with Russian assistance amid deepening military ties between the countries, but some analysts have questioned how effective the vessel would be in active service.
Noun
-
Christine Lagarde, president of the European Central Bank, said AI is a source of productivity and gains.
-
Saturated fats can also cause weight gain, affect metabolic health and increase the risk of developing diabetes, heart disease and other health issues, according to the National Library of Medicine.
Verb
-
Trump responded by saying their decision only heightens the importance of Congress passing the SAVE America Act, his effort to rewrite voter eligibility laws.
-
The environmental organizations raised concerns about the nearby data center’s potential effects, including noise and light pollution that could alter animals’ breeding patterns and potentially heighten their stress responses.
Noun
-
Wade is the first free-agent addition to the Sixers since Mike Gansey replaced Daryl Morey as the team's new president of basketball operations.
-
Its newest addition—part of hotelier Ian Schrager’s Edition chain—is a decidedly more subdued affair, and that’s by design.
Cite this Entry
“Step up.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/step%20up. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
