# free up

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/free-up
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to make something available so it can be used for another purpose.

For teachers: to release or liberate a resource, such as time, space, or money, from a current commitment or restriction so that it may be utilized elsewhere.

## Examples

- I need to free up some space on my phone.
- Deleting those old videos will free up enough memory for the new software update.
- The government hopes that reducing administrative costs will free up significant capital for investment in public infrastructure projects.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I need to free some time up of my schedule." but "I need to free up some time in my schedule." — the preposition 'of' is incorrect here; use 'in' or 'from' to describe the source of the freed resource.

## Usage notes

- commonly used with abstract nouns like 'time', 'space', 'memory', or 'funds'.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'empty' or 'clear'; 'free up' implies that the resource is now ready for a new, productive use rather than just being vacant.

---

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.