kick up

USAGE SUMMARY

"kick up" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to mean "to raise (dust, sand, etc.)". For example, "His feet kicking up dust, John ran faster across the desert."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

So kick up your heels, ladies.

The New York Times

I'll take the practice kick up there".

The New York Times - Sports

"We're ready to kick up a firestorm".

The New York Times - Magazine

But you feel it's got to kick up sometime".

The New York Times - Sports

Why is it so hard to kick up a fuss?

Independent

I love to make some dust, kick up earth.

Independent

That was the kick up the backside England needed.

Independent

"They really hadn't the time to kick up their heels.

The New York Times

Others kick up frenzied mosh pits on the floor.

The New York Times

"But I tend to kick up, not down..

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Crazy kick-up skills with footballs.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "kick up" to mean 'increase', ensure the context clearly indicates what is being increased (e.g., "kick up" your savings rate).

Common error

Avoid using "kick up" in formal contexts where a more neutral term like 'increase' or 'raise' would be more appropriate. "Kick up" often implies a sudden or unexpected change.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "kick up" functions primarily as a dynamic verb, indicating an action or process. Ludwig shows it is used to express causing a disturbance, increasing something, or showing anger. The diverse examples provided demonstrate its versatility in conveying varied actions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "kick up" is a versatile phrasal verb with several meanings, including causing a disturbance, increasing something, and expressing anger. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct. While used across various contexts, it is generally considered informal. The examples in Ludwig highlight its use in news, media, and general conversation. When writing, it's essential to consider the specific connotation and choose a more formal alternative when appropriate. Be aware of the subtle nuances in its meaning to effectively convey your intended message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stir up

Focuses on causing a disturbance or excitement.

raise

Emphasizes the action of increasing something, such as a price or level.

cause a fuss

Highlights the act of complaining or protesting.

elicit

Implies drawing out a response or reaction.

provoke

Suggests intentionally causing a reaction, often negative.

flare up

Specifically refers to a sudden and intense recurrence of something, like an illness.

increase

Directly indicates a rise in quantity or intensity.

create a disturbance

Emphasizes the act of disrupting peace or order.

give a boost

Indicates providing encouragement or momentum.

get going

Suggests starting an activity or process with energy.

FAQs

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

You can use "kick up" in various contexts. For instance, "The wind will "stir up" dust" or "They might "cause a fuss" about the changes."

What does "kick up a fuss" mean?

To "kick up a fuss" means to protest or complain loudly and energetically about something. It's similar to saying someone is "making a scene" or "raising objections".

When is it appropriate to use "kick up" instead of "increase"?

Use "kick up" when you want to emphasize a sudden or unexpected increase. "Increase" is more neutral and suitable for formal contexts, while "kick up" adds a sense of energy or abruptness, like to "boost the pace".

Is "kick up" formal or informal?

"Kick up" is generally considered informal. In professional or academic writing, it's better to use more formal alternatives like "raise", "increase", or "stir up", depending on the intended meaning and "setting the mood".