pick up speed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pick up speed" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to an object, person, or activity increasing in velocity and becoming faster. For example: "The car began to pick up speed as it raced down the highway."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We pick up speed, balancing on bollards, scrambling up walls.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Pick up speed and refuse to slow down.

WikiHow

I ignore him and pick up speed.

The New Yorker

Moreover, its recovery is thought likely to pick up speed.

The Economist

He just seems to pick up speed in a race.

The Guardian - Sport

They have also watched glaciers pick up speed downhill.

The Guardian

The gamble helped Jarrett pick up speed in his Ford.

The New York Times - Sports

"But some teams only pick up speed through the tournament.

The Guardian - Sport

Change will be gradual, at some point may pick up speed, but will never be universal.

Columbia University

I imagine it would go slowly at first and then pick up speed.

Cornell University

Just as it starts to pick up speed, another boat comes barreling straight at it.

Princeton University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "pick up speed" to describe a gradual or noticeable increase in velocity. It's suitable for both physical movement (like a car or runner) and abstract processes (like a project or economy).

Common error

While "pick up speed" is widely understood, in formal or scientific writing, consider using more precise terms like "accelerate" or "increase in velocity" for greater clarity and a more professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pick up speed" primarily functions as a verb phrase indicating an increase in velocity or rate. It's used to describe the action of something becoming faster, whether it's a physical object or a process. Ludwig AI confirms the grammatical correctness and usability of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "pick up speed" is a versatile and commonly used verb phrase that describes an increase in velocity or rate. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and suitable for a variety of contexts, although more formal alternatives like "accelerate" may be preferred in certain academic or professional settings. With over 70 real-world examples available through Ludwig, its usage is clearly demonstrated across various domains like News & Media, Academia and Wiki. When writing, remember that "pick up speed" is best used for gradual increases, and consider more precise terms if greater formality is required.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

accelerate

Single verb form instead of a phrasal verb, shorter and more direct.

gather pace

Emphasizes the gradual increase in speed or momentum.

gain momentum

Focuses on the increasing force or impetus behind the movement or activity.

build up speed

Highlights the process of accumulating speed over time.

increase velocity

More technical and precise, suitable for scientific or formal contexts.

step up the pace

Suggests a deliberate effort to increase speed or activity.

move faster

A simpler and more general way to express an increase in speed.

quicken

Implies a rapid or sudden increase in speed.

get faster

Similar to "move faster" but emphasizes the comparative aspect.

ramp up

Refers to a phased increase, commonly in business or manufacturing contexts, less focused on physical velocity.

FAQs

How can I use "pick up speed" in a sentence?

You can use "pick up speed" to describe something that is accelerating. For example: "The car began to "pick up speed" on the highway" or "The project is expected to "gain momentum" and "pick up speed" in the coming months".

What are some synonyms for "pick up speed"?

Alternatives to "pick up speed" include "accelerate", "gather pace", or "gain momentum". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "picking up speed" or should I use another form?

"Picking up speed" is the present participle form, suitable for continuous tenses (e.g. "The car is picking up speed"). Other forms include "picks up speed" (present simple), and "picked up speed" (past simple or past participle).

What's the difference between "pick up speed" and "speed up"?

"Pick up speed" implies a gradual increase in velocity, while "speed up" can refer to an immediate or intentional action to increase the rate or pace of something. "Speed up" is often used in imperative sentences (e.g. "Speed up the process").