Quick Definition
Make Up — To invent a story; to reconcile after a disagreement; to constitute or form; to apply cosmetics.
Meanings of Make Up
| Meaning | Example Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Invent a story | Don't believe him — he made the whole thing up. | He invented it. |
| Reconcile | They had a big argument but made up the next day. | They forgave each other. |
| Constitute | Women make up 60% of the workforce. | They constitute 60%. |
Example Sentences
| Sentence | Meaning in Context |
|---|---|
| Don't believe him — he made the whole thing up. | He invented it. |
| They had a big argument but made up the next day. | They forgave each other. |
| Women make up 60% of the workforce. | They constitute 60%. |
| "Don't worry -- I'll make up it." | Using it in a short reassurance. |
Grammar Notes
Separability & Transitivity
Type: separable / inseparable | Transitivity: transitive / intransitive
Separable when 'invent': make a story up / make up a story. Inseparable in 'constitute' sense: make up the majority.
How to Use Make Up
Neutral to informal. Multiple meanings require context to distinguish.
| Register | Example / Notes |
|---|---|
| Informal / Spoken | Don't believe him — he made the whole thing up. |
| Neutral / Written | Consider context; single-word synonyms may suit formal writing. |
Similar Phrasal Verbs
Practise Make Up
Practice English Phrasal Verbs
Use these exercises to master phrasal verbs in context:
Frequently Asked Questions about Make Up
What does "Make Up" mean?
"Make Up" means: To invent a story; to reconcile after a disagreement; to constitute or form; to apply cosmetics. It is a transitive / intransitive phrasal verb rated CEFR B1.
Is "Make Up" separable or inseparable?
"Make Up" is separable / inseparable. Separable when 'invent': make a story up / make up a story. Inseparable in 'constitute' sense: make up the majority.
How do I use "Make Up" in a sentence?
Don't believe him — he made the whole thing up. -- in this example, 'Make Up' means he invented it.
What is the register of "Make Up"?
Neutral to informal. Multiple meanings require context to distinguish.
What CEFR level is "Make Up"?
"Make Up" is typically taught at CEFR B1 — Intermediate level. It appears frequently in neutral to informal contexts.
What is the difference between "Make Up" and similar phrasal verbs?
"Make Up" specifically means: To invent a story; to reconcile after a disagreement; to constitute or form; to apply cosmetics. Compare with similar verbs in the 'Similar Phrasal Verbs' section below for nuanced differences.
Can "Make Up" be used formally?
Neutral to informal. Multiple meanings require context to distinguish. When writing formally, consider whether a single-word synonym might be more appropriate for the context.
Does "Make Up" take an object?
"Make Up" is transitive / intransitive. Separable when 'invent': make a story up / make up a story. Inseparable in 'constitute' sense: make up the majority.
How can I practise "Make Up"?
Use LexFizz's Find the Match and Flip Tiles exercises to practise 'Make Up' in context. Seeing it in multiple sentences helps the meaning stick.
Is "Make Up" used in British or American English?
"Make Up" is used in both British and American English, though register and frequency may vary. Neutral to informal. Multiple meanings require context to distinguish.