"have to live up to it" vs "have to live up to them"

Question

"have to live up to it" vs "have to live up to them"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Have to live up to them' is used when referring to multiple expectations or standards, while 'have to live up to it' is used when referring to a singular expectation or standard.

Last Updated: March 21, 2024

This phrase is used when someone is expected to meet a single expectation or standard set by others.

Examples:

As an athlete, you have to live up to the coach's expectations.
The author has to live up to the readers' high standards.
She has to live up to the reputation of her predecessor.

Alternatives:

have to meet its expectation
have to fulfill its standard
have to adhere to its requirement
have to match its criteria
have to satisfy its demand

This phrase is used when someone is expected to meet several expectations or standards set by others.

Examples:

As a team leader, you have to live up to their expectations.
The students have to live up to their parents' standards.
Employees have to live up to their company's values.

Alternatives:

have to meet their expectations
have to fulfill their standards
have to adhere to their requirements
have to match their criteria
have to satisfy their demands

Answer 1

have to live up to it

This phrase is correct and commonly used when referring to a singular expectation or standard that needs to be met.

Answer 2

have to live up to them

This phrase is correct and commonly used when referring to multiple expectations or standards that need to be met.

"have to live up to it" vs "have to live up to them"

have to live up to it

have to live up to them

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