boss up

USAGE SUMMARY

"boss up" is a commonly used phrase and is considered correct and usable in written English.
It is used to mean taking charge or taking control of a situation. It is often used as an informal or slang term. Example: "After being constantly overlooked for promotion, Jane decided to boss up and demand a raise from her boss." In this sentence, "boss up" means that Jane decided to take control of her career by asking for a raise instead of waiting to be recognized for her hard work.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

Around forty willing members of staff have gotten inked with the green and black logo or said they would take their boss up on the offer.

Independent

But first there was a fitting question for Winfield, who experienced everything as a George Steinbrenner-made Yankee except for the only thing that could shut the once-blustering Boss up, a World Series clinching.

The New York Times - Sports

Further investigation by WPM suggests the five-day event won't be a tasty little earner for her (it costs £5 to put your boss up for grabs) but the nice bone in her body is pleased to hear that her hard-earned cash will be going to a good cause, since all proceeds raised will go to Ovacome, the ovarian cancer charity.

The Guardian - Money

I help women break the cycle of burnout and boss up in work and life.

Forbes

It wasnt like I was showing the boss up, but I was able to do something that he would normally have to pay an outside firm for.

Forbes

What caused the systems to be pulled from his site isn't clear, though the rapper appears to have acknowledged as much in a tweet, stating, "I had to boss up, I didn't have a choice".

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

Such chased relief work sometimes simulates embossed work, but in the latter process the design is bossed up from the back.

Encyclopedia Britannica

I have a responsibility to keep bossing up and leading by example.

Forbes

"If he thinks a big cheque will shut health bosses up, he is probably mistaken but it will mean the NHS has to live up to its side of the bargain: making £22bn of efficiencies".

BBC

-- This post is part of a series recognizing the achievements of Bossed Up's Boss of the Year nominees, in celebration of their official #LaunchLikeABoss Party in DC July 24.

Huffington Post

Felicia is the author of "Get Bossed Up or Stay Basic", speaker, business coach, and radio personality.

HuffPost

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "boss up" to convey a sense of empowerment and taking control, particularly in situations where one feels undervalued or overlooked.

Common error

Avoid using "boss up" in formal or professional settings, as it may be perceived as too casual or slangy. Opt for more professional alternatives like "take initiative" or "step up" in these situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "boss up" functions as a phrasal verb, often used to describe the act of taking decisive action or asserting oneself in a situation, as seen in the examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "boss up" is an informal phrasal verb that means to take control or assert oneself, especially in situations where one feels undervalued. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and most frequently found in News & Media contexts. While "boss up" conveys a sense of empowerment, it's best to avoid using it in formal or professional settings, opting instead for alternatives like "take charge" or "step up". The examples from Ludwig offer a clear picture of how this phrase is used in contemporary English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

take charge

Emphasizes assuming control and responsibility.

step up

Highlights the act of taking on a more significant role or responsibility.

take the reins

Implies gaining control and directing a situation or project.

assert oneself

Focuses on confidently expressing one's opinions or needs.

take the initiative

Stresses being proactive and starting something without being told.

rise to the occasion

Suggests meeting a challenge or opportunity with skill and determination.

seize the opportunity

Highlights the act of taking advantage of a favorable situation.

dominate

Emphasizes controlling or having power over a situation or person.

come into one's own

Implies developing one's abilities and confidence.

gain prominence

Focuses on becoming more noticeable or important.

FAQs

What does it mean to "boss up"?

To "boss up" means to take control of a situation, assert oneself, or improve one's position, often in a professional or personal context.

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

You might say, "After being passed over for a promotion, she decided to "boss up" and ask her manager for a raise."

What can I say instead of "boss up"?

You can use alternatives like "take charge", "step up", or "take the initiative" depending on the context.

Is "boss up" appropriate for formal writing?

No, "boss up" is generally considered informal. In formal writing, it's better to use phrases like "assert oneself" or "take control".