work up to 1. 逐步发展到,逐渐达到 Soon the engine was working up to its top speed. 发动机很快就开足了马力。 2. 逐步升职至 work up to the position of vice-governor 逐步升到副总督的地位 3. 打算讲,逐渐讲到 The speaker took far too long working up to his main point. 演讲者讲了好久才讲到主题。 4. 激发得;使激动得 work sb. up to a fever of excitement 挑逗得某人兴奋若狂