Definitions

stepped up

[stept-uhp] / ˈstɛptˈʌp /

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

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.

Guterres called for stepped-up diplomatic efforts to find a peaceful solution and said his personal envoy, Jean Arnault, was travelling to the region to support them.

From BBC • Apr. 7, 2026

Iran has stepped-up its attacks in and around the Strait of Hormuz, effectively shutting the world’s most important energy transport route.

From Barron's • Mar. 12, 2026

But they include stepped-up identification checks at entry gates and random vehicle inspections, according to Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune in North Carolina.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 2, 2026

After the stepped-up enforcement, more than 10,700 drivers—including Karan—failed English tests, losing the right to drive.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 1, 2026

Prospects for 2001 are strengthened by government millennium projects for a new convention center, additional hotels, an amusement park, a new airport, and stepped-up roadbuilding and factory construction plans.

From The 2001 CIA World Factbook by United States. Central Intelligence Agency