flew up

USAGE SUMMARY

"flew up" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is most often used when describing the motion of something moving quickly upwards, although it can also be used to describe a feeling. For example: The bird quickly flew up into the sky, or I felt my spirits soar as I flew up the stairs.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Mr. Poxley's eyebrows flew up.

The New Yorker

Then the other flew up.

The New York Times

Then we flew up and did again.

Independent

"He flew up and he came down.

The New York Times

Her hands flew up to her mouth.

The New Yorker

Helicopters flew up and down the Hudson.

The New Yorker

He flew up and over it.

The New Yorker

A kingfisher flew up the stream.

The New Yorker

His thick black eyebrows flew up.

The New Yorker

Bodies flew up in the air.

The New York Times

Her skirt flew up around her legs.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "flew up" to vividly describe rapid upward movement or a sudden increase, adding dynamism to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "flew up" to describe something that is already in an elevated position. This phrase is best suited for illustrating an object or person in motion, transitioning from a lower to a higher point.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "flew up" is that of a phrasal verb, indicating a completed action of moving upwards quickly. Ludwig AI confirms that "flew up" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe movement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Science

14%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "flew up" is a phrasal verb that vividly illustrates rapid upward movement or a sudden increase, deemed correct and usable by Ludwig AI. Predominantly featured in News & Media contexts, it maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse applications. To enhance your writing, utilize "flew up" to depict dynamic motion, while avoiding its application in static scenarios. For varied expression, consider alternatives such as "ascended rapidly" or "rose suddenly", ensuring your prose remains engaging and precise.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ascended rapidly

Focuses on the act of climbing or rising quickly.

rose suddenly

Emphasizes a quick and unexpected increase or rise.

soared upwards

Highlights a graceful and powerful ascent.

shot up

Implies a very quick and forceful upward movement.

surged upward

Suggests a powerful and continuous upward movement.

climbed swiftly

Highlights a fast and efficient upward climb.

elevated quickly

Focuses on the act of being lifted or raised rapidly.

increased sharply

Emphasizes a rapid and significant increase in quantity or value.

moved skyward

Focuses on the movement in the direction of the sky.

spiraled upward

Describes a twisting, upward movement.

FAQs

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

You can use "flew up" to describe a physical movement, such as "The bird "flew up" from the tree", or a sudden increase, such as "Prices "flew up" after the announcement".

What are some synonyms for "flew up"?

Depending on the context, you can use synonyms like "rose suddenly", "shot up", or "ascended rapidly".

Is "flew up" formal or informal?

"Flew up" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, as shown in the examples from news media and personal blogs.

What is the difference between "flew up" and "flew down"?

"Flew up" indicates movement in an upward direction, while "flew down" indicates movement in a downward direction. The choice depends on the direction of the action you're describing.