Up Idioms

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clam up

Meaning: Suddenly becoming silent, often because of embarrassment, nervousness, or unwillingness to speak.

Example: When the teacher asked about the missing assignment, clam up Read more ➺


ginger up

Meaning: to cheer up a group or any activity

Example: As soon as they heard about the picnic - the children in the class gingered up. Read more ➺


don’t give up the day job

Meaning: a usually humorous way of telling someone not to pursue something full time as he or she is not good at it

Example: I watched your performance at the theater today. My advice is don't give up your day job. Read more ➺


liquor up

Meaning: Drink alcohol to the point of intoxication.

Example: He likes to liquor up before heading to the party. Read more ➺


take up the cudgels

Meaning: To defend a person, cause, or idea strongly and publicly.

Example: Marie and her friends are willing to take up the cudgels for women's rights. Read more ➺


up in arms

Meaning: Very angry or upset about something.

Example: Residents were up in arms after the town decided to raise property taxes again. Read more ➺


up the ante

Meaning: Increase the demands or risks in order to achieve better results.

Example: The company decided to up the ante by lowering prices and adding free shipping. Read more ➺


up in the air

Meaning: Not decided yet; still uncertain or unresolved.

Example: The future of the project is up in the air until the board gives approval. Read more ➺


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