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to creep up on
[phrase form: creep]
01
to move slowly and gradually toward someone or something without being noticed
Examples
Trying not to spoil the surprise, Sarah had to carefully creep up on her friend's house to join the birthday celebration unnoticed.
The spy needed to infiltrate the enemy base, so he meticulously planned to creep up on the guards, avoiding any detection.
02
(of a date or an event) to come or happen sooner than one was expecting
Examples
The deadline for the project crept up on us, catching us by surprise.
As the exam date crept up on the students, they realized the need for focused preparation.
03
to gradually experience a feeling, state, etc. in a more clear and noticeable manner
Examples
As he celebrated his 40th birthday, the awareness of getting older crept up on him, and he reflected on the passing of time.
The financial difficulties started to creep up on her after months of overspending, and she suddenly found herself in a tight situation.
