Another Word for Catch Up – Meaning, Synonyms, and Examples

The phrasal verb catch up is very flexible, meaning to reach the same level as someone, or to update someone on recent events. To make your English more descriptive and to match the situation, learning another word for catch up is very helpful. Using synonyms allows you to communicate different kinds of parity and updating clearly.

What is Another Word for Catch Up?

A great synonym for catch up (meaning to reach the same level) is overtake. Catch up means to reach someone or something that is ahead of you. Overtake means to catch up with and pass by. While catch up implies reaching the same point, overtake implies going past it. Both words relate to movement and parity. Learning words like overtake helps you talk about reaching and surpassing a target.

Meaning of “Catch Up”

Catch up means to reach the same level or standard as someone or something that was ahead; or, to exchange news about recent events with someone.

We use it when a student needs to study more to catch up with the class, or when friends meet to catch up on each other’s lives.

Synonyms for “Catch Up”

Here are some common ways to say catch up:

• Overtake: To catch up with and pass (usually in a race or competition). Used for surpassing a lead.
• Equalize: To make or become equal. Used for reaching the same score, level, or standard.
• Update: To give someone the most recent information. Used specifically for sharing news or information.
• Brief: To give someone key information or instructions. Used formally for giving necessary recent details.
• Meet: To see and talk to someone after a time. A simple alternative for the social meaning.

Example Sentences

• The competitor worked hard to equalize the score in the final round.
• The faster runner will soon overtake the person in the lead.
• I need to update my manager on all the developments from the conference.
• The director will brief the team on the new project guidelines tomorrow.
• Let’s meet for coffee soon and talk about your vacation.

Mini Dialogue

Sam: “I was sick last week and missed two days of school.”

Mia: “Don’t worry, I can help you catch up on the notes and homework.”

Sam: “Thank you, that would be a great help!”

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Don’t say: Let’s catch up the news later. (The direct object is not used between catch and up.)

✅ Do say: Let’s catch up later. (Or: Let’s catch up on the news later.)

Let’s Practice!

Which synonym best fits this sentence? “The company needs a quick session to __________ the new employees on the safety procedures.” (Answer: Brief – This synonym works best because it refers to formally giving key, necessary recent information or instructions.)

Practice Tip

Use one new synonym for catch up in your next message or conversation today.

Final Note

Knowing what is another word for catch up and practicing synonyms like overtake and update will help you communicate movement and knowledge sharing clearly. Keep learning—you are improving your English fluency!