work up

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.

To help diners work up an appetite before the game, Kieran is setting up goals in the lush grounds surrounding the castle.

From BBC • Jun. 5, 2026

Because the person has not worked outside of the house, Trench and Jensen have them start with an entry-level receptionist job paying $45,000 a year, and work up from there.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 30, 2026

Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia can work up the information necessary to submit a seizure warrant to the court in a matter of weeks.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 8, 2026

Residents, including both parents in two-parent households, could be required to work up to 40 hours a week.

From Salon • Oct. 1, 2025

“I figured,” said Mother, “if you could work up the courage to tell me the truth about JT, you were brave enough to stay home.”

From "The Lions of Little Rock" by Kristin Levine