English Reference

Phrasal verb

gear up

Definition

phrasal verb. to get ready for an activity or event that is about to happen. You use this when you are preparing your tools, your team, or even your mind for a big challenge.

phrasal verb. to prepare for a forthcoming activity, event, or challenge. The verb is typically used intransitively or followed by the preposition 'for' to specify the objective.

Examples

“The team is gearing up for the championship final this weekend.”

“Retailers are already gearing up for the holiday season by hiring extra staff and stocking their warehouses.”

“International aid agencies are gearing up for a massive relief operation following the devastating earthquake in the coastal region.”

Examples

simple

“The team is gearing up for the championship final this weekend.”

contextual

“Retailers are already gearing up for the holiday season by hiring extra staff and stocking their warehouses.”

complex

“International aid agencies are gearing up for a massive relief operation following the devastating earthquake in the coastal region.”

Usage

usually followed by 'for' when mentioning the specific event you are preparing for.

Teaching tip

contrast with 'prepare' to show how 'gear up' implies a more active or resource-heavy preparation phase.

Pitfall

I am gearing up my final exams.

I am gearing up for my final exams.

the preposition 'for' is required to connect the verb to the event or challenge you are preparing for.

Phrasal verb

Particles

up

Separability

inseparable

Pattern

gear + up (+ for + object)

Synonyms

prepareget readymobilizeequip

Antonyms

wind downfinish

Grammar

Phrasal verbs (introduction)

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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