Meaning trap

split up

divide into smaller groups

To separate something or a group of people into smaller parts or groups.

phrasal verbB2common

Don't mix these meanings

Same phrase, different job.

divide into smaller groups

To separate something or a group of people into smaller parts or groups.

split up (end a relationship)

Another meaning of 'split up' is 'end a relationship'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

Let's split up into teams so we can finish the project faster.study
During the group activity, the teacher asked us to split up into smaller groups to discuss the topic.IELTS speaking

Pattern: split (something/someone) up (into)

WrongLet's split up in two groups.

RightLet's split up into two groups.

Split up INTO groups — not 'in'.

Patternsplit (something/someone) up (into)

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff We will divide the participants into smaller subgroups.

Natural Let's split up into groups.

'Split up' is the natural verb for dividing people into groups; the formal version is heavy.

Words that usually travel with it.

This sense is about dividing, not ending relationships.

split up (end a relationship) — Another meaning of 'split up' is 'end a relationship'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.