Beat up

usgb
verb

To hurt someone badly by hitting or kicking them again and again.

He got beaten up by a gang of thugs on his way home.
Visual representation of "beat up" - to hurt someone badly by hitting or kicking them again and again

Often appears as...

  • get beaten up
  • beat up badly

Usage tips

Informal

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "beat up"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Violent Connotation

The verb 'beat up' implies a severe physical attack, more intense than just being hit once.

Illustration for Violent Connotation
The victim was beaten up to the point where hospitalization was necessary.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Figurative Usage

Sometimes, 'beat up' is used figuratively to describe self-criticism or harsh judgment towards oneself.

Illustration for Figurative Usage
Don't beat yourself up over a small mistake, learn from it!
LampPro Tip 3/3

Informal Context

'Beat up' is informal and used more in spoken than written language, and mostly in casual conversation or media, not formal contexts.

Illustration for Informal Context
He didn’t want to admit it, but I could tell he had been beaten up.
Visual representation of the word "Beat up"

Never forget "Beat up"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google PlayGet it from MicrosoftGet it on AppGallery
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension
Back to top