swept up

sweep up

1. To use a sweeping motion, especially with a brush or broom, to gather up and remove something all at once. In this usage, a noun or pronoun can be used between "sweep" and "up." I want you to sweep up all of this dust and debris before you leave. I need to sweep these leaves up off the lawn so I can cut the grass.
2. To use a sweeping motion, especially with a brush or broom, to clean something or some place. In this usage, a noun or pronoun can be used between "sweep" and "up." Be sure to sweep up the workshop after you're done. I want you kids to sweep up this room right now!
3. To lift someone or something out (of something or some place) all at once with a sweeping force or movement. In this usage, a noun or pronoun is used between "sweep" and "up." Almost always followed by "into (something)." I swept my kids up into my arms the moment I saw them. The gust of wind swept the papers up into the air.
4. To cause someone to feel captivated, charmed, or enthused about something. In this usage, a noun or pronoun is used between "sweep" and "up." Typically used in passive constructions. I don't really like sports, but even I was swept up in the excitement over the team's championship victory. People from all over the country have been swept up in protests against the government's new legislation.
See also: sweep, up

swept up

Involved in something through happenstance or proximity. I'm afraid that if he stays in that neighborhood, he's going to get swept up in some shady stuff just by being in the wrong place at the wrong time. I'm sorry that you got swept up in all of this, but I'm glad you're here.
See also: swept, up
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
See also:
  • back into
  • back into (someone or something)
  • angle
  • angling
  • orient
  • orient to
  • orient to (something)
  • spiff up
  • spiffed up
  • involved with
References in periodicals archive
Many of them are small firms that are likely going to be swept up in a wave of consolidation, but there are formidable competitors such as SF Express, Yangtze River Express and China Post, all of which operate air networks and have final-mile delivery capabilities.
Integrators flesh out domestic China service
But now, after that spectacular opening ceremony, even crusty old cynics like me can't help but be swept up in the thrill of it all.
London's found its heart of gold.. at long last
I guess because of that challenge I worked on that harder at school and then I just got swept up in it.
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