—| B1-B2 (intermediate) |—

In North American English, this word typically means:

PHRASAL VERB:

1. to completely clean something, until it is no longer dirty (transitive)

2. to organize or tidy a space (transitive)

3. to dress nicely (intransitive)

EXAMPLES

1. “The house was abandoned five years ago, so it has gotten really dirty. In order to sell it, the city had to clean it up. Now, there is no dirt anywhere. No mess. It is a beautiful home. I am sure that it will sell quickly.”

2. “Before having my friends over, I always clean up my apartment. I dust, I vacuum, I put the cushions neatly on the couch and fold the blankets and put them away. I also usually pick up my dog’s toys and put them in a pile next to his bed.”

3. “Wow! I don’t think I have ever seen you in a suit before. You clean up nicely.”

   “Thanks. It feels good to dress more elegantly. Usually, I just wear sweatpants and a t-shirt.”

How often do you clean things up in your home? What about your desk at the office? Let me know in the comments below.