Phrasal verb
juice up
Definition
phrasal verb. to make something more exciting, powerful, or interesting. You use this when you want to improve the energy or quality of a project or a machine.
phrasal verb. to enhance the power, energy, or aesthetic appeal of something. Transitive; frequently applied to mechanical performance, digital interfaces, or creative content to increase impact.
Examples
“We need to juice up the presentation with some better images.”
“The chef decided to juice up the menu by adding several spicy fusion dishes for the summer season.”
“The engineering team sought to juice up the engine's torque by modifying the fuel injection system, though this led to concerns regarding long-term reliability.”
Examples
simple
“We need to juice up the presentation with some better images.”
contextual
“The chef decided to juice up the menu by adding several spicy fusion dishes for the summer season.”
complex
“The engineering team sought to juice up the engine's torque by modifying the fuel injection system, though this led to concerns regarding long-term reliability.”
Usage
This phrase is informal and often appears in contexts involving technology, cars, or creative work.
Teaching tip
Explain that 'juice' acts as a metaphor for energy or fuel; it is often used interchangeably with 'beef up' but carries a more energetic, lively connotation.
Pitfall
I need to juice up to my phone.
I need to juice up my phone.
the phrasal verb is transitive and does not require the preposition 'to' before the object.
Phrasal verb
Particles
up
Separability
optional
Pattern
juice + 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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englishreference.com/q/juice-up