Phrasal verb
make up
Meanings
to invent a story, excuse, or information that is not true
to become friends again after an argument
to form or constitute a whole; to be the parts of something
Definition
To make up usually means to invent something or to become friends again after an argument.
Make up is a common phrasal verb with a few everyday meanings. It often means to invent a story, excuse, or detail that is not true. It can also mean to end an argument and become friendly again. In another common use, it means to form or constitute a whole when parts are combined.
Examples
- I had to make up an excuse for being late.
- You can’t just make up rules during the game.
- He and his sister made up after their argument.
- She made up a funny story to entertain the kids.
- Several small villages make up the region.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse “make up” (invent) with “make up for” (compensate) and use the wrong preposition.
More phrasal verbs
- go on To go on means to continue or keep happening.
- carry out To carry out something means to do it or complete it, especially a plan, task, or instruction.
- set up To set up means to arrange or prepare something so it is ready to use or happen.
- pick up “Pick up” most commonly means to collect someone or something from a place, usually by going there.
- go back To go back means to return to a place, time, or earlier situation.