Phrasal verb
size up
Definition
phrasal verb. to look at someone or something carefully to form an opinion or make a judgment.
phrasal verb. to assess or evaluate a person, situation, or object, typically to determine its value, strength, or potential risk. Transitive and often implies a quick but thorough visual inspection.
Examples
“The two boxers size up each other before the fight starts.”
“She took a moment to size up the situation before deciding whether to intervene in the argument.”
“The venture capitalist spent the afternoon sizing up the startup's leadership team to determine if they were worth the investment.”
Examples
simple
“The two boxers size up each other before the fight starts.”
contextual
“She took a moment to size up the situation before deciding whether to intervene in the argument.”
complex
“The venture capitalist spent the afternoon sizing up the startup's leadership team to determine if they were worth the investment.”
Usage
often used when meeting a competitor or facing a new challenge.
Teaching tip
contrast with 'evaluate' or 'assess'; 'size up' is more visual and immediate, often used in physical or competitive contexts.
Pitfall
He sized up to the competition.
He sized up the competition.
the verb is transitive and takes a direct object without the preposition 'to'.
Phrasal verb
Particles
up
Separability
optional
Pattern
size + up + object
Synonyms
Antonyms
Grammar
- 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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