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.

See Examples For:

stepped up

Keller, for his part, has stepped up irrigation work on his land.

From Barron's ● Jul. 26, 2026

After the war began it stepped up shipments via pipeline to the Red Sea port of Yanbu, which has allowed it export some three quarters of its pre-war level.

From Barron's ● Jul. 23, 2026

The handover of power, which has been underway for some time, has stepped up a gear.

From BBC ● Jul. 17, 2026

Salvadoran referee Iván Barton immediately pointed to the spot and Oyarzabal stepped up and obliged, beating French keeper Mike Maignan into the side netting at the right post for his fifth goal of the tournament.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 15, 2026

Babou was still haggling, but Mom stepped up and whispered something in his ear.

From "Darius the Great Is Not Okay" by Adib Khorram