make up
The phrase "make up" is versatile and widely used in English, encompassing various meanings from fabrication to reconciliation.
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Definition
B1General
To form or constitute something from parts or components.
Example
- The committee is made up of experts from various fields.
- Different cultures make up the fabric of our society.
B1General
To invent or fabricate something, often with the intention to deceive.
Example
- She made up a story to explain her lateness.
- He often makes up excuses to avoid doing chores.
B2General
To reconcile or resolve a disagreement.
Example
- After their argument, they decided to make up and move on.
- They finally made up after years of not speaking.
B2General
To compensate for something missed or lost.
Example
- He had to make up the missed classes by attending extra sessions.
- She worked late to make up for the time she lost during the meeting.
A2Cosmetics
To apply cosmetics to enhance or alter one's appearance.
Example
- She took an hour to make up her face before the party.
- Actors need to make up before going on stage.
B1General
To prepare or arrange something, such as a bed or a document.
Example
- The hotel staff will make up the room for new guests.
- She made up a list of things to buy.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "make up":
make overdress uppaint upmakeup callmake it up totouch updo upcover upfix up