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live up to









Frequently Asked Questions

What is another word for live up to?
The verb phrase live up to is used in the context of standards and expectations. To live up to a standard or expectation is to meet it, match it, or measure up to it. This means your real-life actions have conformed to what was expected or required. If you live up to your end of the bargain, you carry out or fulfill your duty or responsibility.
What is the opposite (antonym) of live up to?
The phrase live up to can be used in negative constructions, as in That restaurant didn’t live up to the hype. To not live up to a standard or expectation is to fail to meet it or match it—to fall short of it.
How do you use live up to in a sentence?
We usually use live up to in the context of expectations. Here are some examples of live up to in a sentence:
  • She has really lived up to her mother’s cycling legacy—and it looks like she may surpass it.
  • I lived up to my side of the deal, so now it’s time for you to pay up.
  • Based on the reviews, the new model didn’t live up to expectations for many customers.

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.

See Examples For:

It's quite a lot to live up to but "you have ways of coping".

From BBC Jul. 8, 2026

We cheered our national ideals, and the nation seemed unified in trying to live up to them.

From Salon Jul. 3, 2026

But his tenure did not live up to expectations, even with a roster that included Hall of Famer Adrián Beltré, Kevin Brown and Gary Sheffield.

From Los Angeles Times Jul. 1, 2026

But “Do the Right Thing” remains with us, its urgency and relevance undiminished, waiting for an America open to listen and live up to its idealized aspirations.

From Los Angeles Times Jun. 29, 2026

“Maybe he’s going through a hard time that isn’t permanent. You’re a smart girl—very smart. Is it pretty hard trying to live up to the one—in your skin?”

From "East of Eden" by John Steinbeck




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