step up (something)

to make something larger, faster, or more effective.

Following the explosion the airport authorities stepped up security.

We had to step our defense up and move the ball better.

Usage notes: also used in the form step it up:

The coach said that if we don't step it up in the second half we're in trouble.

• need head examining
• need I say more
• needle in a haystack
• needless to say
• need like a hole in the head
• need like need a hole in the head
• need like you need a hole in the head
• needs must
• need something like a hole in the head
• need something like need a hole in the head
• need something like you need a hole in the head
• need to have head examined
• need to have your head examined
• need your head examined
• need your head examining
• neither here nor there
• nerves of steel
• nest egg
• never a dull moment
• never darken door again
• never darken your door again
• never hear the end of it.
• never hear the end of it
• never live down
• never live something down