Buck up Meaning and Definition
Buck up
Pronunciation
/ˈbæk ʌp/
Part of Speech
Phrase
Definition
A phrase used to urge someone to persevere or stop being lazy, often in the face of adversity or difficulty.
Examples
- When faced with a challenging task, he bucked up and completed it.
- After a minor setback, she bucked up and continued on.
Synonyms
- Harden up
- Toughen up
Etymology
The phrase “Buck up” is believed to have originated in the late 17th century, likely derived from the phrase “buck up the courage,” which meant to muster one’s strength or courage.
Usage Notes
The phrase “Buck up” is often used to encourage someone to be more resilient or determined, but it can also be used in a more humorous or ironic tone to poke fun at someone for being lazy or unmotivated.
Cultural References
The phrase “Buck up” has been referenced in various forms of media, including movies, TV shows, and music.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- Rise to the challenge
- Step up
- Man up
Related Words or Phrases
- Persevere
- Persist
- Endure
Collocations
- to buck up and get on with the job
- to buck up and face the music
Frequency of Use
The phrase “Buck up” is relatively common in informal conversation, particularly in British English, but it is not often used in formal writing or in more formal settings.
Common Misspellings
- Buck up with
- Buck up the