step up the pace

USAGE SUMMARY

"step up the pace" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is typically used to encourage someone or a group of people to work faster or be more productive. For example: "Let's step up the pace and finish this project before the end of the day."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The ability to push a regional agenda could be stymied just as others step up the pace.

The Economist

After ten laps, Viren decided to step up the pace.

Stanford University

Then she urged her to step up the pace.

The New York Times

They need a push, we are looking to them to step up the pace".

Independent

In 1985 extra funds were provided to step up the pace of the work.

The New Yorker

Should it step up the pace and grow even larger through mergers and acquisitions?

The New York Times - Tech

Not even the government's recent efforts to step up the pace of privatization have cheered investors.

The New York Times

More than that, we must step up the pace of change.

The Guardian

India's leaders claim to want to step up the pace of reform, and have done so in a modest way.

The Economist

Its suppliers were unable or unwilling to step up the pace because Boeing had mistreated them so often.

The Economist

She seeks to dig herself out of this hole by promising to step up the pace of digital innovation.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "step up the pace" in your writing, ensure it aligns with the context. It's best suited when you're referring to a process or activity that requires more urgency or speed to achieve a desired outcome efficiently.

Common error

Avoid using "step up the pace" when referring to situations that require careful deliberation or creativity, as it may imply a sacrifice of quality for speed. Instead, opt for phrases that emphasize improvement or thoughtful progress.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "step up the pace" functions as an idiomatic expression used as a verb phrase. According to Ludwig AI, it encourages an increase in the speed or intensity of an activity. This can be seen in examples where it calls for actions to be expedited or accelerated.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Formal & Business

11%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "step up the pace" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that encourages increased speed or effort. As noted by Ludwig AI, this phrase is appropriate for a wide range of contexts, from news and media to formal business settings. It's important to use the phrase judiciously, ensuring it aligns with the overall tone and intent of the writing. While it's typically used to express the need for faster progress, it should not be used in situations where quality or careful consideration is more important than speed. Alternatives such as "accelerate the rate" or "expedite the process" may be considered based on the specific context. Overall, "step up the pace" remains a versatile and effective way to convey the need for increased momentum.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

accelerate the rate

This alternative focuses on increasing the speed or frequency at which something happens.

increase the tempo

Similar to "step up the pace", this phrase implies a faster rhythm or speed, often used in the context of music or activity.

quicken the tempo

This option emphasizes a rapid increase in speed or pace.

expedite the process

This alternative focuses on accelerating a procedure or series of actions.

accelerate the progress

This suggests hastening forward movement or development.

boost the speed

Focuses on enhancing the swiftness or velocity of something.

hasten the development

This stresses accelerating growth or evolution.

sharpen the rhythm

This expression refers to making rhythm more crisp and quickly.

move faster

This is a simpler, more direct way of saying to increase speed.

pick up the speed

Similar to "step up the pace", this idiom refers to hastening the momentum.

FAQs

How can I use "step up the pace" in a sentence?

You can use "step up the pace" to suggest an increase in speed or effort. For example: "To meet the deadline, we need to "step up the pace" of our work."

What are some alternatives to "step up the pace"?

Alternatives to "step up the pace" include "accelerate the rate", "increase the tempo", or "expedite the process", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "step up the pace" in formal writing?

Yes, "step up the pace" is acceptable in formal writing, particularly in business or professional contexts, where it conveys a need for increased efficiency or speed. However, ensure the tone aligns with the overall formality of the piece.

What does it mean to "step up the pace"?

To "step up the pace" means to increase the speed or intensity at which something is done. It typically implies that a faster rate of progress is needed to achieve a particular goal or meet a deadline.