Built from ramp, a sloping surface connecting different levels, and up. The image is of movement toward a higher level. Merriam-Webster dates the related noun ramp-up to 1980.
Built from ramp, a sloping surface connecting different levels, and up. The image is of movement toward a higher level. Merriam-Webster dates the related noun ramp-up to 1980.
What does ramp up mean?
It means to increase, or cause something to increase, in amount, activity, speed, power, effort, or intensity.
Does ramp up always mean a gradual increase?
No. The phrase describes movement to a higher level, and context may make the increase gradual or quick.
Can ramp up be transitive and intransitive?
Yes. A company can ramp up production, while demand or activity can simply ramp up.
What is the difference between ramp up and scale up?
Ramp up focuses on increasing a level of activity or output. Scale up often focuses on expanding capacity while preserving a process or system.
What is the opposite of ramp up?
Ramp down is the closest matching expression for reducing activity or output toward a lower level.
Is ramp-up also a noun?
Yes. The hyphenated noun names an increase or the period in which activity rises, as in a production ramp-up.