Crank up
verb
To increase something in amount or intensity.
They need to crank up the volume of the music.
Often appears as...
- crank up the volume
- crank up the heat
Usage tips
Colloquial
verb
To start a machine or engine by turning a handle.
He cranked up the engine and drove away.
Often appears as...
- crank up the engine
- crank up the car
verb
To put in a lot of effort to produce something or make it successful.
We need to crank up the efforts in order to meet the deadline.
Often appears as...
- crank up efforts
- crank up preparations
verb
To increase something in amount or intensity.
They need to crank up the volume of the music.
Often appears as...
- crank up the volume
- crank up the heat
Usage tips
Colloquial
verb
To start a machine or engine by turning a handle.
He cranked up the engine and drove away.
Often appears as...
- crank up the engine
- crank up the car
verb
To put in a lot of effort to produce something or make it successful.
We need to crank up the efforts in order to meet the deadline.
Often appears as...
- crank up efforts
- crank up preparations
Definition 1 of 3
Pro Tip 1/3Context Matters
Use 'crank up' to imply increased intensity; suitable in casual conversations or informal settings.
The party's too quiet. Let's crank up the fun!
Pro Tip 2/3Not Literally
'Crank up' is often metaphorical, not suggesting physical turning of a crank.
With competition fierce, we need to crank up our marketing game.
Pro Tip 3/3Emotional Connotation
Can express enthusiasm or urgency, especially when motivating someone.
Exams are near; it's time to crank up your study routine!
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