back up — make a copy
phrasal verbB2IELTS 6+neutralcommon
To make an extra copy of computer files or data in case the original is lost or damaged.
Say it like a native
Textbook Be sure to create a duplicate copy of your files regularly.
Native Make sure you back up your files regularly.
'Back up' is the everyday tech verb for copying data; 'create a duplicate copy' is wordy.
Pattern: back up (files/data)
In use
- Remember to back up your files before updating your computer.study
- I always back up my assignments on a USB drive to avoid losing my work.IELTS speaking
Common mistake
✗ Did you backup your files?
✓ Did you back up your files?
The verb is two words ('back up'); 'backup' (one word) is the noun — 'make a backup'.
Common collocations
back up + data— your files, the data, everything, to the cloud
Don't confuse it
Not the same as 'upload', which means to send files to the internet.
Related
- back up (support someone) — Another meaning of 'back up' is 'support someone'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.