Pair up Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Home
/ Dictionary
/ Pair up

💑

Add to dictionary

pair up

[per ʌp ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

intransitive

To become romantically involved with someone; to form a romantic relationship.

Synonyms

date, get-together, hook up.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
pair up	This is often used in contexts where individuals are grouped together for a specific task, activity, or project. It lacks any romantic connotation. For this classroom exercise, we'd like everyone to pair up to complete the worksheet. During the company retreat, we will pair up employees from different departments to encourage teamwork.
get-together	This term is used for informal social gatherings, usually among friends, family, or acquaintances. It generally doesn't imply any romantic connection. We're having a get-together at my place this weekend. You should come! Last night's get-together was so much fun; we played board games and chatted.
hook up	Slang that usually refers to casual sexual encounters or romantic meetings but often with a non-committal tone. It can have a negative connotation depending on context. They hooked up after the party last night. I'm not looking for anything serious, just a casual hook up.
date	Used when referring to planned romantic meetings between two people. This word has a clear romantic implication. Do you want to go on a date with me this Friday? They've been dating for a few months and seem really happy together.

Examples of usage

He paired up with his coworker after the office party.
She paired up with her best friend's brother.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

informal

A partnership or pairing, especially in a romantic or social context.

Synonyms

couple, duo, partnership.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
pair up	Typically used when two people or things are matched or come together to work or do something as a team, often temporarily. For the project, please pair up with a classmate. In the dance class, everyone had to pair up for the next routine.
couple	Often used to describe two people in a romantic relationship or two items/things that are joined together. They make a lovely couple. A couple of slices of bread.
duo	Used to refer to two people who perform together in entertainment or work closely as a pair in some specific activity. The duo won the talent show with their amazing performance. The crime-fighting duo solved another case.
partnership	Used to describe a formal agreement where two or more parties work together for a common purpose, often in a business or project-related context. Their partnership has lasted for over ten years. The companies announced a new strategic partnership.

Examples of usage

They make a great pair up on stage.
She's looking for a pair up for the dance competition.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'pair up'

The phrase 'pair up' originated in the early 19th century, derived from the combination of the words 'pair' and 'up'. It gained popularity in the context of forming romantic relationships or partnerships. Over time, it has become commonly used in informal conversations and social settings to describe the act of getting together with someone in a romantic or social capacity.