save up for
/seɪv ʌp fɔːr/
Meaning
This expression means to gradually save money over time in order to buy a specific, often expensive, item or experience. It is commonly used when discussing personal goals, like buying a car, going on a trip, or purchasing a new gadget. The tone is neutral and highly conversational.
Examples
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I'm trying to save up for a new laptop because my old one is incredibly slow.
I'm trying to save up for a new laptop because my old one is incredibly slow.
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They managed to save up for a trip to Japan after working extra hours all summer.
They managed to save up for a trip to Japan after working extra hours all summer.
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Are you still saving up for that electric guitar you showed me last month?
Are you still saving up for that electric guitar you showed me last month?
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It took us three years to save up for a down payment on our first apartment.
It took us three years to save up for a down payment on our first apartment.
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She is saving up for college, so she doesn't go out to eat very often.
She is saving up for college, so she doesn't go out to eat very often.
Common Mistakes
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✗ I am saving up to a new car.
✓ I am saving up for a new car.
Use the preposition 'for' before the noun representing the item you want to buy. Use 'to' only before verbs (e.g., 'saving up to buy').
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✗ He saved up money for go on vacation.
✓ He saved up money to go on vacation.
When followed by a verb phrase, use 'to + verb' instead of 'for + verb' to indicate the purpose.
Related Expressions
Practice
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She's working part-time to ___ a new smartphone.
💡 Keep money specifically to buy something.
Show answer
save up for
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We need to ___ our wedding next year.
💡 Store money over time for a big event.
Show answer
save up for