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.

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

From MarketWatch • Jun. 9, 2026

The previous laggards — staples, utilities, and technology — then stepped up to outperform.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 2, 2026

Dr Oscar, who is visually impaired, will need a guide runner for the official run, and our very own Gethin Jones has stepped up to the job.

From BBC • May 29, 2026

Swathes of the two regions are under the control of the Rwanda-backed anti-government armed group M23, which re-emerged in late 2021 but stepped up its campaign early last year.

From Barron's • May 29, 2026

But when a shooter stepped up to the white chalk line, he became all business.

From "Wringer" by Jerry Spinelli