# pick up the pace

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/pick-up-the-pace
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To begin moving or working faster.

## Examples

- We need to pick up the pace to arrive on time.
- The project deadline is tomorrow, so we really need to pick up the pace if we want to finish.
- As the storm clouds gathered on the horizon, the hikers realized they had to pick up the pace to reach the safety of the cabin before nightfall.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.