mature up

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'mature up' can be used in written English.
It is typically used to tell someone to act more maturely or responsibly. For example, you could say, "It's time for you to mature up and take responsibility for your actions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

But if the government sticks to that method alone, they won't know the fate of this year's endangered Kemp's ridley hatchlings, which seek out floating seaweed patches in the gulf after leaving their nests in Mexico, until those hatchlings mature, up to 15 years later.

Science Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

He's matured up before our eyes".

The New York Times - Sports

But these features will be ramping up over the next few weeks, and we'll be following the site as it matures up to its public release.

TechCrunch

You can mature, grow up, but you can't lose yourself.

The Guardian - Film

But I entirely understand why Skins took this route: far better to leave characters behind than see them grow up, mature out and end up with them only experimenting with their tax return.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

A gap year allows kids who are less developmentally mature to grow up a bit.

Huffington Post

Several authors have reported early thrombosis or failure of RC-AVFs to mature in up to 20%to57%7% of patients.

Journal of the American College of Surgeons

Then they are dried, fermented once, sorted and graded, then fermented a second time before being packed in bales and left to mature for up to two years.

Forbes

Terminal differentiation was achieved by allowing plated cells to mature for up to 42 days without FGF-2 or Noggin supplementation.

Cell Death and Disease

Grabbing mature catfish up to 5ft (1.5m) long and 30 years old with your bare hands has been described as the ultimate fishing thrill, an adrenalin-fuelled extreme sport.

The Guardian

In addition, students headed to military academies, foreign students wanting to improve their English and others who simply need another year to mature make up some of this group.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "mature up", ensure that the context clearly indicates a need for increased responsibility or more adult behavior. It is often used in situations where someone is acting younger or less capable than expected.

Common error

Avoid using "mature up" in formal writing or professional settings, as it can sound too informal or even condescending. Opt for phrases like "develop greater responsibility" or "demonstrate increased maturity" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "mature up" functions as an intransitive phrasal verb, indicating a process or action undertaken by the subject. It doesn't take a direct object. Ludwig examples showcase its use in urging or describing the process of becoming more mature.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "mature up" is used to describe or encourage the process of becoming more responsible or adult-like. While grammatically correct and understood, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is best suited for informal settings. Its relatively low frequency suggests using it judiciously, opting for more formal alternatives in professional contexts. Keep in mind that "grow up", "become more responsible", and "take responsibility" can serve as suitable alternatives, depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

grow up

Focuses more on the general process of becoming an adult, whereas "mature up" emphasizes taking on mature behavior.

act one's age

Highlights behaving in a way that is appropriate for one's age, implying a current lack of maturity.

become more responsible

Emphasizes the development of responsible behavior, a key aspect of maturing.

develop maturity

Directly addresses the process of gaining maturity, often implying emotional or intellectual growth.

grow more sensible

Suggests becoming more reasonable and practical in one's thinking and actions.

step up

Focuses on taking initiative and assuming responsibility, especially in challenging situations.

get serious

Implies a shift from frivolous or immature behavior to a more focused and responsible attitude.

wise up

Conveys the idea of becoming more aware and making better decisions based on experience or knowledge.

behave responsibly

Highlights the importance of demonstrating responsible actions and choices.

take responsibility

Stresses the act of accepting accountability for one's actions and decisions.

FAQs

What does it mean to tell someone to "mature up"?

Telling someone to "mature up" means you believe they need to start acting more responsibly, thoughtfully, and in a way that is more appropriate for their age or situation. It suggests their current behavior is immature or inadequate.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "mature up"?

The phrase "mature up" is best used in informal settings, like conversations with friends or family, where you want to encourage someone to take a more responsible or adult approach. Avoid it in professional or formal contexts.

What are some alternative ways to say "mature up"?

Instead of "mature up", you could say "grow up", "act your age", "become more responsible", or "take responsibility" depending on the context.

Is "mature up" grammatically correct?

Yes, "mature up" is grammatically correct as a phrasal verb. It is commonly used in spoken English and informal writing. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability, providing real-world examples.