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stepping up
/ˈstɛpɪŋ ʌp/◆phrasal verb
taking responsibility
She stepped up to lead the project when the manager resigned.
She took responsibility to lead the project after the manager left.
general
to assume responsibility or take action when needed
The team captain stepped up to organize the event after the original planner dropped out.
The team captain took charge to organize the event after the original planner left.
He stepped up to help his colleague finish the report before the deadline.
He took action to assist his colleague in completing the report on time.
Often used in work, team, or community contexts where someone takes initiative.
Collocations
step up to the platetake responsibility or take action when neededstep up a gearincrease effort or speed
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Context matters
Use 'stepping up' to describe someone taking charge in a positive light. Avoid using it when someone is forced into a situation against their will.
Gold Rule
Avoid redundancy
Do not pair 'stepping up' with 'to take responsibility' unless emphasizing the action (e.g., 'She stepped up to take responsibility').
Word Origin
From the verb 'step' (to move by lifting one foot and putting it down in another spot) combined with the preposition 'up' (indicating an increase or taking action). The phrase emerged in the early 20th century, evolving from literal movement to metaphorical responsibility-taking.
Usage Notes
Common in both formal and informal contexts. Often used to praise someone for taking action, but can also imply criticism if someone is avoiding responsibility.
Word Breakdown
step
to move or take action
verbup
indicates an increase or taking action
prepositionEnglish Dictionary