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.

Other countries such as Brazil, Venezuela and Angola also stepped up.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 9, 2026

The U.S. stepped up exports of crude and also of products such as diesel, gasoline and jet fuels, with refineries running at the top of their capacity.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 9, 2026

This time they were undone by the skill of Nathan Smith who, like Jamieson in the first innings, stepped up to cover the limitations of Henry.

From BBC • Jun. 5, 2026

U.S. crude-oil inventories fell for a fifth consecutive week as refineries stepped up their capacity use, while gasoline stocks extended their decline to 15 weeks, according to data released Thursday by the U.S.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 28, 2026

And because Simeon didn't laugh, Kenzi stepped up.

From "Look Both Ways" by Jason Reynolds