GO UP

📖 Definition

The phrasal verb "go up" means to increase in height, price, or intensity, or to rise, advance, or escalate in various contexts.

Examples in context

📖 Definition

The phrasal verb "go up" means to increase in height, price, or intensity, or to rise, advance, or escalate in various contexts.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable
No
This verb cannot be split by an object.
Register
Neutral
This phrasal verb can be used in both formal and informal situations.
Transitive
No
This verb does not take a direct object.

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense Form Example
Present Simple go up Prices go up every summer.
Past Simple went up The temperature went up sharply yesterday.
Present Continuous going up The sun is going up over the horizon.
Present Perfect have gone up Prices have gone up over the past year.

💡 When to Use

Inflation context
Use 'go up' to describe situations where prices increase significantly over time due to economic factors.
Example: "During a recession, it's common for grocery prices to go up unexpectedly."
Building construction
Use when describing progress or completion of a building structure or any physical infrastructure.
Example: "The new skyscraper downtown is going up quickly."
Emotional intensity
Describes a situation where emotions, tension, or excitement are rising or intensifying.
Example: "Excitement started to go up as the concert began."

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Using it transitively
❌ Wrong: She went up the prices.
✅ Correct: The prices went up.
💡 Tip: Remember that 'go up' doesn't need a direct object.
Wrong tense usage
❌ Wrong: The building go up quickly.
✅ Correct: The building went up quickly.
💡 Tip: Ensure subject-verb agreement in past tense.
Incorrect word order
❌ Wrong: Up go the prices every year.
✅ Correct: The prices go up every year.
💡 Tip: Keep 'go' and 'up' together for proper structure.
Practice

GO UP - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

  1. Listen and repeat the audio as many times as needed to improve your pronunciation
  2. Use the audio as a dictation exercise, trying to write what you hear and understand
  3. Create a new sentence following the structure of the example sentences

Examples in Context

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

rise increase

Antonyms

go down

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"When fuel prices ___ up, transportation costs also increase."

fall
go up
dive
shrink

"As the sun sets, the courage to go up reflects the spirit's noble ascent against life's downward pull."

In Context

On June 12, 1963, the world watched as civil rights leader Medgar Evers approached his home after a long day. Known for his relentless pursuit of racial equality, Evers had dedicated his life to ensuring that African Americans in Mississippi could exercise their right to vote. As tensions in the South continued to go up, so did the risks he faced daily. That night, after parking his car, he began to walk towards his door, feeling the weight of the struggles he championed. Suddenly, a shot rang out, and Medgar Evers collapsed, mortally wounded. His assassination sent shockwaves across the nation, catalyzing the Civil Rights Movement to go up in urgency and importance. His funeral became a pivotal moment as thousands of mourners gathered, signifying the rising determination to continue his fight. As marches and protests escalated, his legacy propelled the movement to go up in strength, leading to landmark legislation like the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Medgar Evers' life and tragic death underscore the enduring struggle for equality and justice. His story remains a testament to the courage and sacrifices that continue to uplift generations in the ongoing quest for civil rights.

Frequently Asked Questions about Go Up

What is the origin of go up?

+
'Go up' originates from Middle English with 'go' meaning to move or proceed and 'up' meaning to ascent or rise, dating back to the 13th century.

Can go up be used in formal and informal contexts?

+
'Go up' is a versatile phrasal verb suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It is commonly used in economic, social, and daily life discussions.

What is the difference between go up and rise?

+
While both 'go up' and 'rise' can mean to increase or ascend, 'rise' is slightly more formal and suggests a gradual or natural increase.
Browse All Tiny House Phrasal Verbs
Tiny House Phrasal Verbs - WeeklyCross
Alessandra Nóbrega
About the Author

Alessandra Nóbrega

History teacher who fell in love with English! This passion led me to specialize in languages and work on bilingual education projects. With 37 years in education, I believe learning should be meaningful – not just memorization.

Learn more about my journey



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