ENGLISH
REFERENCE

front up

phr. v..
C1 Advanced Oxford British English Informal

phr. v.. to appear in person for something difficult, or to pay money that you owe.

phr. v.. to present oneself at a specific location or event, often when one is reluctant or under scrutiny; also used in financial contexts to mean providing necessary funds.


SIMPLE

He had to front up to court this morning.

CONTEXTUAL

If you want the bank to lend you money, you must front up some cash first.

COMPLEX

The CEO was forced to front up to the press and explain the company's massive loss in the third quarter.

Particles
up
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
front + up (+ to + object)
Usage

often used with 'to' when referring to a person or situation one must face.

Teaching tip

this is a common phrasal verb in Australian and British English; it combines the idea of 'facing' something with the physical act of 'showing up'.

Pitfall

He fronted to the meeting.He fronted up to the meeting.the particle 'up' is necessary to complete the phrasal verb meaning of appearing or facing a situation.

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