warming up to

USAGE SUMMARY

"warming up to" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It means to gradually become more comfortable or friendly towards someone or something. Example: She was initially hesitant about joining the new club, but after meeting some of the members and participating in their activities, she found herself warming up to the idea.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

Warming up to the memory.

The New York Times

The marketplace is just now warming up to this".

The New York Times

Pop radio stations are already warming up to him.

The New York Times

"He's warming up to it," Dr. Murray said.

The New York Times

I was warming up to the West Side.

The New York Times

And what about the fans warming up to him?

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

He warmed up to Turkey.

The New York Times

"You just get warmed up to it".

The New York Times

"They haven't warmed up to it".

The New York Times - Arts

"They warmed up to him pretty fast.

The New York Times - Sports

But then Krissy warms up to her.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "warming up to" to describe a gradual change in attitude or feeling. It implies a process rather than an immediate shift.

Common error

Avoid using "warming up to" when describing an instantaneous change of heart. The phrase suggests a gradual increase in acceptance or affection over time.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "warming up to" functions as a dynamic verb, describing a gradual change in attitude or feeling. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and common usage, signaling a process of becoming more receptive or affectionate toward something or someone.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

19%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "warming up to" is a phrasal verb that signifies a gradual change in attitude, becoming more accepting or affectionate towards someone or something. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriate and common usage. It is grammatically correct and versatile, fitting well in news, business, and even scientific contexts. While not highly formal, it avoids being overly casual. Understanding the gradual aspect of this phrase is key to using it effectively. Consider alternatives like "getting into", "becoming more receptive to", or "developing an appreciation for" to diversify your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

becoming more receptive to

Focuses on the act of receiving or accepting something, emphasizing openness.

becoming more amenable to

Highlights increased willingness or agreement.

developing an appreciation for

Implies a growing understanding and valuing of something.

beginning to accept

Focuses on the initial stage of acceptance.

growing fond of

Suggests an increasing feeling of affection or liking.

cultivating a liking for

Implies actively developing a positive feeling.

starting to favor

Highlights the beginning of showing preference or support.

becoming keen on

Suggests developing enthusiasm for something.

inclining towards

Indicates a tendency or leaning in a particular direction.

getting used to

Emphasizes the process of becoming familiar and comfortable.

FAQs

How can I use "warming up to" in a sentence?

The phrase "warming up to" describes a gradual increase in positive sentiment or acceptance. For example, "Initially skeptical, he started "warming up to" the new proposal after understanding its benefits."

What's a less formal way to say "warming up to"?

In less formal contexts, consider using phrases like "getting into", "starting to like", or "getting used to" as alternatives to "warming up to".

What's the difference between "warming up to" and "liking"?

"Liking" suggests a more immediate or established positive feeling. "Warming up to" implies a process of gradually developing that positive feeling or acceptance.

Can "warming up to" be used for objects and ideas, or only people?

"Warming up to" can be used for people, objects, or ideas. For example, you can "warm up to" a new colleague, a new style of music, or a new political concept.