Phrasal verb
save up
In Japanese
to store; to save up; to stock up on
Japanese from JMdict (EDRDG), CC BY-SA 4.0. All sources.
Definition
phrasal verb. to keep money instead of spending it so you can buy something later. You use this when you have a specific goal, like a new phone or a holiday.
phrasal verb. To accumulate money over a period of time, typically for a specific purpose or purchase. It functions both intransitively and transitively, often taking 'for' to indicate the goal.
Examples
“I am saving up for a new bike.”
“After working extra shifts all summer, she finally saved up enough money to travel across Europe.”
“Despite the rising cost of living, many young professionals are struggling to save up a deposit for their first home in the city.”
Examples
simple
“I am saving up for a new bike.”
contextual
“After working extra shifts all summer, she finally saved up enough money to travel across Europe.”
complex
“Despite the rising cost of living, many young professionals are struggling to save up a deposit for their first home in the city.”
Usage
Usually followed by 'for' plus the noun representing the intended purchase.
Teaching tip
Contrast with the simple verb 'save'; 'save up' emphasizes the process of reaching a specific financial target.
Pitfall
I am saving up a new car.
I am saving up for a new car.
The preposition 'for' is required when the object is the item being purchased rather than the money itself.
Phrasal verb
Particles
up
Separability
optional
Pattern
save + 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.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL 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: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784EikenEikenTest in Practical English ProficiencyThe English proficiency test from the Eiken Foundation of Japan, widely taken by Japanese students. Grades run from 5 to 1, with Pre-1 and Pre-2 between them.Grade 2
- Level
- B1 · Intermediate
- Updated
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