Phrasal verb
back up
To back up is to make a copy of data so it can be restored later if the original is lost or damaged.
Meanings
to make a copy of data so it can be recovered later
to move or drive backward
to support someone or show that what they say is true
Definition
If you back up files or information, you save an extra copy in another place, such as a cloud service or external drive. People back up data to protect it from accidents like deletion, device failure, or theft. You can back up automatically on a schedule or do it manually before a risky change.
Examples
- I back up my photos to an external drive every Sunday.
- Before you update the software, back up your files.
- She backed up her claim with screenshots from her phone.
- They backed up slowly to give the cyclist more space.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse back up (make a copy or support) with back (move backward) and forget the particle up.
More phrasal verbs
- go on To go on means to continue or keep happening.
- carry out To carry out something means to do it or complete it, especially a plan, task, or instruction.
- set up To set up means to arrange or prepare something so it is ready to use or happen.
- pick up “Pick up” most commonly means to collect someone or something from a place, usually by going there.
- go back To go back means to return to a place, time, or earlier situation.