Trade up Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Better Quality Use 'trade up' when you get something of better quality or features. He traded up to a phone with a better camera. Pro Tip 2/3Personal Possessions 'Trade up' often relates to personal items like cars, phones, or houses. They want to trade up to a larger house. Pro Tip 3/3Not a Downgrade Be aware that 'trade up' means to get something better, not just different. Trading up to a newer model doesn't always mean more expense.