Act up is a commonly used phrase that can mean a variety of things depending on the context in which it is used. It is important to understand the various definitions and associations of this phrase to ensure proper usage.
Definitions
Act up can mean to behave in a disruptive or unruly manner, to malfunction or not work properly, or to become ill or experience symptoms.
Origin
The phrase act up has been in use since at least the early 20th century, with its origins likely rooted in the idea of acting out or behaving in an exaggerated or inappropriate manner.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to Merriam-Webster, act up means to behave or function in an improper or unruly manner. The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as to misbehave or malfunction, while Cambridge Dictionary states it means to behave in a way that is not acceptable or to stop working correctly.
Associations
Acting up can be associated with children misbehaving, electronic devices malfunctioning, or physical symptoms worsening.
Synonyms
Synonyms for act up include misbehave, malfunction, play up, act out, and cause trouble.
Antonyms
Antonyms for act up include behave, function properly, work correctly, and follow the rules.
The same root words
The same root words as act up include act, which means to perform or behave in a certain way, and up, which can mean to intensify or increase.
Example Sentences
- The children were acting up and causing a disturbance in the classroom.
- My computer is acting up and won’t turn on.
- My allergies always act up in the springtime.
- He tends to act up when he’s had too much to drink.
- The car’s engine started to act up on the highway.