bind up

USAGE SUMMARY

"bind up" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe the action of securing an object or wrapping it tightly with cord or bandages. Example: She gently bound up the wound with a sterile bandage.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Furthermore, our results show that receptor binding and subsequent membrane fusion are distinct steps, and that each spike can bind up to three ACE2 molecules.

Plosone

"Bind up the nation's wounds?" he said.

The New Yorker

Ultimately, Lincoln's call to "bind up the nation's wounds" prevailed.

The New York Times

Despite its prowess, the all-wheel-drive system had a disconcerting tendency, on all three tested Touaregs, to bind up at low speeds in tight corners.

The New York Times

"Anybody that has ever used a saw knows every once in a while it will bind up," Admiral Thad Allen said at a press conference today.

The New Yorker

Adapting Lincoln, he wished that victory in the Gulf might "bind up the wounds of Vietnam".Such large hopes could not all be fulfilled.

The Economist

The turban is worn as a sign of religious respect but also as a matter of practicality, to bind up long hair.

The New York Times

As the good shepherd, God will feed his flock and will "seek the lost," "bring back the strayed," "bind up the crippled," and "strengthen the weak".

Encyclopedia Britannica

It was, said Ford, time to "bind up the nation's wounds".

Forbes

Each Ti atom can bind up to six hydrogen molecules with an average adsorption energy of 0.22 eV/H2.

International Journal of Hydrogen Energy

Metallothioneins (MTs) are small cysteine rich proteins that can bind up to seven Zn II) and act as a Zn II) reservoir.

Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the specific nuance you wish to convey. "Bind up" can imply both physical restraint and emotional healing, so choose it when both aspects are relevant.

Common error

While "bind up" is versatile, avoid using it excessively in very casual conversations. Simpler terms like "wrap" or "tie" may be more appropriate for everyday contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bind up" primarily functions as a phrasal verb. It's used to describe the action of securing something by wrapping or tying it. Ludwig shows examples ranging from physical binding to metaphorical healing.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "bind up" is a versatile phrasal verb used to describe both physical securing and metaphorical healing. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. It is commonly found in News & Media and Science contexts. The phrase can be used to describe physically wrapping something or conveying the idea of healing and restoration. While grammatically sound, avoid overuse in extremely informal contexts. Alternatives like "wrap securely" or "heal the wounds" can be used depending on the intended meaning. The expert rating reflects its consistent and correct use across authoritative sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bandage tightly

Specifically relates to applying a bandage in a secure manner.

wrap securely

Focuses on the action of wrapping something tightly.

secure firmly

Emphasizes the act of making something stable and unmoving.

tie together

Focuses on physically connecting two or more items.

fasten securely

Highlights the reliable attachment of one thing to another.

heal the wounds

Emphasizes the process of emotional or physical recovery.

repair damage

Highlights the restoration of something that is broken or harmed.

knit together

Suggests a close and integrated connection.

consolidate resources

Highlights combining and strengthening available assets.

bring together

Focuses on uniting people or things.

FAQs

How can I use "bind up" in a sentence?

"Bind up" can be used to describe physically wrapping something, as in "She used a bandage to "bind up" the wound." It can also be used metaphorically, like in "We need to "bind up" the nation's wounds after the divisive election".

What are some alternatives to "bind up"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "wrap securely", "heal the wounds", or "tie together".

Is it correct to say "bind up" instead of "tie up"?

While both phrases involve securing something, "bind up" often implies a more comprehensive or restorative action, especially in metaphorical contexts. "Tie up" is generally used for physical connections or constraints.

What's the difference between "bind up" and "bandage tightly"?

"Bandage tightly" specifically refers to applying a bandage in a secure manner, whereas "bind up" can encompass a broader range of actions, including wrapping or securing something with various materials, or metaphorical healing.