Not be up to much

usgb
phrase

To not be very good, competent or interesting.

I watched his new movie last night, but it really wasn't up to much.
Visual representation of "not be up to much" - To not be very good, competent or interesting

Often appears as...

  • isn't up to much
  • weren't up to much

Usage tips

Informal

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "not be up to much"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Subjectivity

The phrase can reflect personal taste, so what's 'not up to much' for one person may be fine for another.

Illustration for Subjectivity
His painting wasn't up to much, at least that's what I thought.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Not Awful

It doesn't mean something is terrible, just that it doesn't stand out positively.

Illustration for Not Awful
The lunch at the cafeteria wasn't up to much today.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Understated Critique

It's often used to politely express disappointment or that expectations were not met.

Illustration for Understated Critique
The sequel to my favorite game wasn't up to much, sadly.
Visual representation of the word "Not be up to much"

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