match up

USAGE SUMMARY

"match up" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe when two things are seen or used together. For example: "The different images matched up when I placed them side by side."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

We match up well.

The New York Times - Sports

Both teams match up very well.

The New York Times - Sports

"It just doesn't match up".

The New York Times

They match up with us.

The New York Times - Sports

The teams match up well.

The New York Times - Sports

"We just don't match up with them.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

Here's the match-up.

The Guardian

This particular match-up is especially compelling.

The Economist

The match-up was tantalising.

The Guardian - Sport

So the match-up is uneven.

The Guardian - Opinion

Group B match-up between the sides.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "match up" when you want to indicate that two or more things correspond, are similar, or are well-suited to each other. It's versatile for describing comparisons, competitions, or compatibility.

Common error

Avoid using "match up" in highly formal or academic writing where a more precise term like "correlate", "correspond", or "align" would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "match up" primarily functions as a phrasal verb. It is used to indicate that two or more things correspond, are similar, or are well-suited to each other. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's a correct and usable phrase. Examples from Ludwig showcase its use in various contexts, indicating agreement, compatibility, or comparison.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

29%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "match up" is a versatile phrasal verb used to describe correspondence, compatibility, or competition between two or more things. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and commonly used in diverse contexts, particularly in news, media, and general writing. While generally considered acceptable, more formal alternatives may be preferred in academic or scientific writing. Given its wide range of applications and frequency in various sources, understanding its nuances can greatly enhance communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

correspond

Focuses on direct equivalence or similarity between two things.

be compatible

Indicates that two things can exist or work together without conflict.

align

Emphasizes the arrangement of things in a line or in agreement.

coordinate

Highlights working together smoothly, often for a specific purpose.

measure up

Implies meeting a standard or expectation.

compete

Emphasizes the act of striving against another, especially in a game or contest.

face off

Suggests a direct confrontation or competition.

square off

Suggests preparation for a confrontation or competition.

check out

Focuses on verification of similarity or truth.

tally

Emphasizes the act of calculating a sum or reaching a final number that matches expectations.

FAQs

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

You can use "match up" to indicate that things correspond, are similar, or are well-suited. For example: "The teams "match up" well" or "The evidence doesn't "match up" with his story."

What does "match up" mean?

"Match up" can mean to correspond or be similar, to be well-suited, or to compete against someone. The specific meaning depends on the context in which it is used.

What can I say instead of "match up"?

You can use alternatives like "correspond", "align", "be compatible", or "compete" depending on the context.

Is "match up" formal or informal?

"Match up" is generally considered informal. In more formal contexts, consider using alternatives such as "correspond" or "align".