1
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Phrase(s): work something up
to prepare something, perhaps on short notice. • There are some special clients coming in this weekend. We need to make a presentation. Do you think you can work something up by then? • I will work up something for this weekend., Phrase(s): work oneself up (to something)
1. to prepare oneself with sufficient energy or courage to do something. • I can’t just walk in there and ask for a raise. I have to work myself up to it. • I worked myself up and went into the boss’s office. 2. and work one’s way up (to something) to progress in one’s work to a particular rank or status. • I worked myself up to sergeant in no time at all. • Claude worked his way up to master sergeant. work out 1. [for something] to turn out all right in the end. (See also turn out (all right); work out (as something).) • Don’t worry. Everything will work out. • This will work out. Don’t worry. 2. [for someone] to do a program of exercise. • I work out at least twice a week. • I need to work out more often., Phrase(s): work oneself up
to allow oneself to become emotionally upset. • Todd worked himself up, and I thought he would scream. • Don’t work yourself up over Sally. She’s not worth it., Phrase(s): work someone up
to get someone ready for something, especially medical treatment. (See also work oneself up.) • The staff worked up three patients for surgery that morning. • The doctor told the nurse to work Mr. Franklin up for surgery.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs
2
general::
1. Arouse emotions; see WORKED UP. 2. Increase one's skill, status, or responsibility through effort, as in He worked up to 30 sit-ups a day, or She worked up to bank manager. Also see WORK ONE'S WAY. [Second half of 1600s] 3. Intensify gradually, as in The film worked up to a thrilling climax. [Second half of 1600s] 4. Develop or produce by effort, as in Swimming always works up an appetite. [Second half of 1600s]
American Heritage Idioms