work up

To gradually produce a feeling, physical response, or finished piece of work through effort.

• The walk worked up an appetite.
• We worked up a plan from her notes.
• Have you worked up the courage to call him?

How to use it: work up something (We worked up a detailed proposal.); work up the courage to do something (He worked up the courage to ask for help.)

Similar words: develop, build up

Common phrases: work up courage, work up an appetite, work up a sweat

To make feelings stronger or make someone become excited, angry, or worried.

• His speech worked up the crowd.
• She worked herself up over a small mistake.
• The campaign worked up public anger about the new tax.

How to use it: work someone up (The frightening stories worked the children up.); work up something (Her speech worked up excitement among the crowd.)

Similar words: stir up, arouse, excite

Opposites: calm

Common phrases: work up enthusiasm, work up anger, work up someone

To examine a patient and do tests to find out about their health.

• The doctor worked up the patient.
• They worked him up for persistent chest pain.
• We need to work her up before deciding on treatment.

How to use it: work someone up for something (The team worked her up for possible heart disease.)

Similar words: examine, assess, evaluate

Common phrases: work up someone, work up patients