Own up to Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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own up to
[əʊn ʌp tuː ]
Definition
confess mistake
Admit or acknowledge something, especially something embarrassing or inconvenient.
Synonyms
acknowledge, admit, come clean, confess.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| own up to |
Used when someone takes responsibility for something they have done, often after trying to avoid it.
|
| confess |
Used primarily in contexts involving a formal declaration of guilt, often related to wrongdoing or crimes. Has a strong implication of guilt or regret.
|
| acknowledge |
Used to recognize or accept the truth or existence of something, often in a formal or polite way.
|
| admit |
Used when someone agrees that something is true, especially something bad or embarrassing.
|
| come clean |
Used in more informal situations to address confessing fully and truthfully about something, often after trying to hide it.
|
Examples of usage
- He finally owned up to eating the last piece of cake.
- She owned up to her mistake and apologized to her boss.
- Don't be afraid to own up to your errors, everyone makes mistakes.
- I wish he would just own up to what he did and stop lying about it.
- It's important to own up to your actions and take responsibility for them.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Admitting to mistakes can decrease feelings of guilt and anxiety, promoting emotional well-being.
- Research indicates that honesty about faults leads to stronger relationships, as it builds trust.
- Psychologists note that taking responsibility is a critical part of maturity and personal growth.
Pop Culture
- In movies, characters who own up to their mistakes often have a redemption arc, illustrating growth and honesty.
- Song lyrics frequently emphasize the importance of admitting flaws, reinforcing the idea in popular culture.
- In many popular TV shows, characters garner respect when they own up to their errors, showcasing the value of accountability.
Literature
- Classic literature often features characters that must confront their mistakes, highlighting themes of responsibility.
- In Shakespeare's plays, characters often face dire consequences for failing to own up to their actions, teaching moral lessons.
- In modern novels, protagonists who take accountability often undergo significant character development, making their journey relatable.
Education
- Teaching students to own up to their mistakes encourages a growth mindset, helping them learn and improve.
- Schools often implement programs that emphasize honesty and accountability as core values.
- Classroom discussions about owning up to mistakes can foster a supportive environment where students feel safe to express their errors.
Origin of 'own up to'
Main points about word origin
- The phrase 'own up to' combines the idea of 'owning' something, meaning to take responsibility, with the action of admitting.
- The verb 'own' comes from the Old English 'agan,' meaning to have or possess, indicating responsibility.
- The phrase became popular in the 20th century, linking personal accountability with honesty.
The expression 'own up to' originated in the late 19th century and is a combination of the words 'own' and 'up'. It gained popularity as a way to encourage honesty and accountability by admitting to mistakes or faults. Over time, it has become a commonly used phrasal verb in informal conversations and formal contexts alike.