Differences between build up and make up
Build up means to increase or strengthen something gradually, while make up means to create or invent something that is not true.
Meanings and Definitions: build up vs make up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Build up
- 1Develop a company.
She BUILT the business UP from nothing into a market leader in less than a decade.
- 2Increase.
Tension has been BUILDING UP ever since the government passed the unpopular law.
Make up
- 1Stop being angry with someone.
They are always arguing, but they MAKE UP again very quickly.
- 2Put on cosmetics.
She went to the bathroom to MAKE her face UP.
- 3Invent a story.
They MADE UP an excuse for being late.
Usage Examples: build up, make up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
build up
Example
He wants to build up his savings for a new car.
Example
She builds up her strength by exercising every day.
make up
Example
They always argue, but they make up quickly.
Example
She makes up with her sister after every fight.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Build up
To grow or improve something gradually over time.
Example
She worked hard to develop her skills and eventually became a successful artist.
To gather or collect something gradually over time.
Example
He was able to accumulate enough savings to buy a new car after working two jobs for a year.
To make something stronger or more resilient over time.
Example
Regular exercise can help strengthen your muscles and improve your overall health.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Make up
To invent or create something that is not true.
Example
He had to fabricate an excuse for being late to work since he overslept.
To create or devise something that is not true or realistic.
Example
She concocted a story about winning the lottery to impress her friends.
To create or come up with something that did not exist before.
Example
The company was able to invent a new product that revolutionized the industry.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “build”
Phrasal Verbs with “make”
Phrasal Verbs with “up”
Differences in build up vs make up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: build up or make up?
In daily conversation, people use make up more often than build up. This is because make up is used for a variety of situations such as creating stories, applying makeup, or reconciling with someone. Build up is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about increasing something over time. So, while both phrases are used, make up is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of build up and make up
Build up and make up are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of build up and make up
The tone of build up and make up can differ based on context. Build up often carries a positive or hopeful tone when related to progress or growth, while make up typically has a negative or deceptive tone, especially when referring to lying or fabricating stories.
