bring up to speed
Meaning
To update someone with the latest information so they understand the current situation or progress and can participate effectively.
Origin
From the literal idea of raising a machine/vehicle to the necessary operating speed; figuratively, it means raising a person’s knowledge to the current level.
Notes
Common in workplace speech. Implies someone is behind on information and needs a concise update. Can sound bossy if blunt; soften with “could you” or “please.”
Examples
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Can you bring me up to speed on the project before the client call?
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I was out sick all week, so my manager brought me up to speed this morning.
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Let’s schedule a quick meeting to bring the new hire up to speed.
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I skimmed the emails, but could you still bring me up to speed on what changed?
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She asked for a brief recap to get brought up to speed before joining the discussion.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Verb phrase: bring + object + up to speed (“bring me up to speed”). Tense changes (bring/brought). Passive is common (“be brought up to speed”). Fairly fixed; don’t drop “up.”
Synonyms
- catch up
- fill in
- update
- brief
- get someone up to date
Antonyms
- keep in the dark
- leave out
- withhold information