How Do You Spell MAKE UP?

Pronunciation: [mˌe͡ɪk ˈʌp] (IPA)

The phrase "make up" has an interesting spelling that can be explained with the use of the IPA phonetic transcription. The word "make" is pronounced as /meɪk/, which includes a long "a" sound, a hard "k" sound, and an "eh" sound. The second word, "up," is pronounced as /ʌp/, which includes a short "uh" sound and a hard "p" sound. Together, the two words create the phrase /meɪk ʌp/, which is the phonetic transcription of "make up." The unique spelling of this phrase may be confusing for English language learners but it is crucial to master for clear communication.

MAKE UP Meaning and Definition

  1. Make up can have several different meanings depending on the context in which it is used. As a phrasal verb, it can refer to various actions and concepts.

    1. To create or form something: Make up in this sense implies producing, constructing, or inventing, often referring to physical objects, such as creating a piece of art, composing a song, or crafting a story.

    2. To reconcile or resolve differences: When individuals "make up," it means they have resolved a conflict, disagreement, or argument. It indicates a restoration of a harmonious relationship between people or groups.

    3. To compensate for a loss or deficiency: If someone makes something up, they are compensating for something that is lacking or missing. For example, a teacher may give extra credit work to help a student make up for a failed test.

    4. To apply cosmetics: Make up can also refer to the application of cosmetics or beautifying products to enhance one's appearance. This definition includes foundations, powders, lipsticks, eyeshadows, and other makeup products used in the beauty industry.

    5. To create a story or explanation: When someone makes up a story or excuse, they are fabricating a false narrative or explanation for personal gain, avoiding responsibility, or deceiving others.

    These various definitions of "make up" demonstrate its versatility and usage in different contexts, encompassing creation, resolution, compensation, appearance enhancement, and storytelling.

Common Misspellings for MAKE UP

  • makup
  • makeup-
  • make up
  • mak up
  • nake up
  • kake up
  • jake up
  • mzke up
  • mske up
  • mwke up
  • mqke up
  • maje up
  • mame up
  • maoe up
  • maie up
  • makw up
  • maks up
  • makd up
  • mak4 up
  • mak3 up

Etymology of MAKE UP

The phrase "make up" has a complex etymology. Here are the main origins of the word:

1. "Make" comes from the Old English word "macian", which meant "to form, fashion, or create".

2. "Up" originates from the Old English word "upp", which meant "higher, upper, or above".

The combination of these two words emerged to create "make up". Over time, the phrase underwent semantic changes and gained various meanings. Initially, it referred to physically creating or constructing something. However, it expanded to encompass a broader sense of reconciliation or resolution. Today, "make up" is commonly used to mean resolving an argument, creating harmony, or compensating for something. Additionally, it is used to describe the application of cosmetics to one's face.

Idioms with the word MAKE UP

  • make up your mind The idiom "make up your mind" means to reach a decision or come to a conclusion about something. It implies that someone is indecisive or hesitant in making a choice and should take a definitive stance.
  • make your mind up, at make up your mind To "make your mind up" or "make up your mind" is an idiomatic expression that means to reach a decision or make a choice about something. It implies that someone has been indecisive or unsure about a matter and needs to come to a conclusion.
  • make up for lost time The idiom "make up for lost time" means to compensate or make amends for the time that has been wasted or lost by working harder, being more productive, or accomplishing more in a shorter period. It suggests making an effort to catch up or regain the time that was not utilized effectively.
  • kiss and make up The idiom "kiss and make up" means to reconcile after a quarrel or disagreement, usually through a gesture of forgiveness, apology, or compromise.
  • make up mind The idiom "make up mind" means to reach a decision or come to a conclusion about something after considering different options or possibilities. It refers to the act of finally settling on a choice or making a firm determination.
  • make up a foursm The idiom "make up a foursome" typically refers to forming a group consisting of four individuals, often for the purpose of a specific activity or event. It is commonly used in the context of sports such as golf, where a foursome usually constitutes a complete group for playing a round. However, the idiom can also be more generally applied to any situation that involves forming a group of four people.
  • make up one's mind The idiom "make up one's mind" means to come to a decision or reach a conclusion about something. It refers to the act of making a firm and final choice or determination after considering various options or arguments.
  • make up out of whole cloth To make up something out of whole cloth means to fabricate, invent, or create something entirely false or fictional, often referring to stories, information, or details that have no basis in reality or truth. It implies the act of inventing a narrative or idea completely from scratch, without any foundation or evidence to support it.
  • make up lost ground The idiom "make up lost ground" means to recover or regain lost advantage, progress, or position after falling behind. It refers to the act of catching up or making amends for previous setbacks in order to reach the level or position that was previously lost.
  • make up to The idiom "make up to" means to compensate for a mistake or wrongdoing, or to try to regain someone's favor or forgiveness after behaving badly or causing harm. It involves making amends or engaging in actions to repair a damaged relationship or situation.
  • make up ground The idiom "make up ground" refers to the act of catching up on progress or bridging a distance or gap that was previously lost or missed. It typically implies a person or team making efforts to reach the same level of achievement or advancement as others, who were ahead initially.
  • make up (the) leeway The idiom "make up (the) leeway" refers to the act of catching up or compensating for a delay, setback, or lack of progress in order to reach a desired or expected position. It implies making an extra effort to bridge the gap or recover lost ground.
  • make up To apologize or reconcile with someone after an argument or disagreement.

Similar spelling words for MAKE UP

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