The phrasal verb "finish up" is predominantly used in informal settings, often found in everyday conversation rather than in formal writing or speech. It generally means to complete the last part of an activity or task. In terms of usage, it implies the action of bringing something to an end or finalizing something that has been started. People commonly use it when referring to completing mundane tasks, such as finishing up work for the day, or can be used to announce that someone is almost finished with what they are doing, like "I'm just finishing up this email." It can also indicate the ending of a physical object, such as "finish up the leftovers." The phrase is versatile and can be adapted to both literal and metaphorical contexts, emphasizing the conclusion of activities, tasks, or events.
B1
PreIntermediate
1. To complete a task or activity.
I need to finish up my project before the deadline tomorrow.
Let's finish up the meeting so everyone can go home on time.
2. To consume the last of something.
I finished up the leftovers from dinner last night.
He finished up his drink before leaving the party.