one up (B2)
phrase
Pronunciation: /wʌn ʌp/
Definition
To outdo or surpass someone or something, often in a competitive or rivalrous situation.
Examples
The new restaurant tried to one up the existing ones in the area by offering a unique dining experience.
She tried to one up her sister by buying an even more expensive gift.
How to Use one up
- one up someone (phrasal verb)
- to outdo or surpass someone — "The company tried to one up their rival by releasing a newer product."
- one up something (phrasal verb)
- to improve or increase something by one unit or degree — "She tried to one up her fitness level by exercising for an extra hour each day."
Browse the full Anaversity dictionary