English Expression · Intermediate
trump up
to heavily publicise, promote or market a product
Pronunciation: say trump up
Meaning
To invent or fabricate something, typically a false charge or accusation, in order to deceive.
Example
His electoral "campaign" to date has included attempts to trump up criminal charges against his opponents.
His electoral "campaign" to date has included attempts to trump up criminal charges against his opponents.
Practice tips
- Practice trump up out loud — read the pronunciation guide above and repeat.
- Use it in your own sentence today; reuse beats rereading.
- Pay attention to context: this English expression is for intermediate-level learners.