Phrasal verb
catch up
Meanings
to reach the same position, level, or progress as someone or something that is ahead
to talk with someone and share news after not seeing each other for a while
to do tasks you are late with so you are no longer behind
Definition
To catch up means to reach the same level or position as someone or something that is ahead.
To catch up usually means to become equal with someone after being behind, in speed, progress, or achievement. It can also mean to get the latest news by talking to someone after time apart, or to finish work you have fallen behind on. The meaning is often clear from the context.
Examples
- I need to catch up with the rest of the class before the test.
- You can catch up with me at the next corner.
- He stayed late to catch up on his emails.
- She met her cousin for coffee to catch up after the move.
- They trained hard to catch up to the top team.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse "catch up on" (finish overdue tasks) with "catch up with" (reach someone or meet to talk).
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.