be up for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be up for" is correct and is commonly used in spoken and written English.
It is generally used to respond to suggestions and offers, to indicate that one is ready and willing to do something. Example: "Do you want to go out for dinner tonight?" "I'm definitely up for it!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We'll be up for it.

The New York Times - Sports

"You have to be up for anything".

The New York Times - Magazine

Would you be up for it?

The New Yorker

Roma should be up for it.

The New York Times - Sports

Texas could soon be up for grabs.

The Economist

He'll be up for release soon.

The New York Times - Books

They will be up for it.

Independent

"Everyone will be up for selection.

Independent

"I'd be up for that.

The Guardian - Music

[But] I'd definitely be up for it.

Independent

We knew they'd be up for it.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be up for" when you want to express enthusiasm and willingness to participate in something. It is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

Avoid confusing "be up for" (willing to do) with "be up to" (doing something, often mischievous). For example, say "I'm up for the challenge" not "I'm up to the challenge" if you mean you're willing to undertake it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be up for" functions as a verbal phrase expressing willingness or enthusiasm to participate in an activity or accept a challenge. Ludwig AI confirms its proper grammatical use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Social Media

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be up for" is a common and versatile way to express willingness and enthusiasm. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, indicating that it's a reliable choice for various contexts. While it's suitable for both formal and informal communication, remember to avoid confusing it with "be up to". Its frequent appearance in news and media demonstrates its widespread use, making it a valuable addition to your vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be willing to do

Focuses on the willingness to undertake an action.

be keen on

Emphasizes enthusiasm and interest in doing something.

be game for

Suggests a readiness to try something new or challenging.

be disposed to

Implies a leaning or inclination towards a particular action.

be inclined to

Similar to 'disposed to', suggesting a tendency or willingness.

be prepared to

Highlights the readiness and anticipation for a specific event or task.

be amenable to

Indicates agreement or openness to a suggestion or proposal.

be receptive to

Focuses on being open and responsive to new ideas or experiences.

have a desire to

Highlights the personal motivation and wish to engage in something.

be eager to

Emphasizes enthusiasm and anticipation, suggesting a strong desire.

FAQs

What does "be up for" mean?

The phrase "be up for" means to be willing and enthusiastic about doing something. It expresses a positive attitude towards a suggestion or opportunity.

How can I use "be up for" in a sentence?

You can use "be up for" when you want to express your willingness to participate in an activity, like "I'd "be up for" trying that new restaurant" or "Are you "up for" a game of tennis?".

What can I say instead of "be up for"?

You can use alternatives like "be willing to", "be keen on", or "be game for" depending on the context.

What is the difference between "be up for" and "be up to"?

"Be up for" means to be willing or enthusiastic about something, while "be up to" often implies doing something, sometimes with a hint of mischief. For instance, "I'm "up for" a challenge" means you're willing to take it on, but "What are you "up to"?" questions someone's current activity.