Question 1

What does "work up to" mean?

Accepted Answer

To gradually build the courage or emotional readiness required to say or do something difficult.

Question 2

How do you use "work up to" in a sentence?

Accepted Answer

She had been working up to asking for a pay rise for months before she finally knocked on her manager's door.

Question 3

Is "work up to" formal or informal?

Accepted Answer

"work up to" is register-neutral — appropriate in both casual and formal contexts. Often implies that the goal is emotionally or physically challenging and requires gradual preparation. Can refer to physical training ('work up to running 5km') or emotional readiness ('work up to having a difficult conversation'). Often used with gerunds ('work up to telling him the truth').

work up to

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