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Phrasal verbs "make up for" vs "make up to"

Differences between make up for and make up to

Make up for means to compensate or make amends for a mistake or a loss, while make up to means to try to regain someone's favor or affection.

Meanings and Definitions: make up for vs make up to

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Make up for

  • 1Compensate.

    I sent her a present to try to MAKE UP FOR my appalling behaviour.

Make up to

  • 1Increase a sum received to a higher figure.

    The charity collected £ 24,517.57, and the anonymous donor MADE the total UP TO £ 25,000'

Usage Examples: make up for, make up to in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

make up for

Example

I will make up for my mistake by working harder.

Example

She makes up for her lack of experience with enthusiasm.

make up to

Example

The company made up to the required amount by adding extra funds.

Example

She makes up to the target by contributing her own savings.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Make up for

compensate for

To make up for a mistake or loss by doing something positive or beneficial.

Example

He tried to compensate for his lateness by bringing flowers and apologizing profusely.

atone for

To make amends for a wrongdoing or mistake by doing something to show remorse or make things right.

Example

She decided to atone for her mistake by volunteering at a local charity for a month.

redeem oneself

To make up for past mistakes or failures by doing something positive or beneficial.

Example

After failing the exam, he worked hard to redeem himself by studying harder and getting better grades.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Make up to

apologize to

To express regret or remorse for a mistake or wrongdoing and ask for forgiveness.

Example

He decided to apologize to his friend for forgetting their birthday and missing the party.

make it up to

To try to regain someone's favor or affection by doing something positive or beneficial.

Example

After the argument, she decided to make it up to her partner by cooking their favorite meal and planning a surprise date night.

win back

To regain someone's trust, affection, or loyalty after losing it due to a mistake or wrongdoing.

Example

He tried to win back his ex-girlfriend's love by sending her flowers and writing a heartfelt letter.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Differences in make up for vs make up to: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: make up for or make up to?

Both phrases are used in everyday conversation, but make up for is more common. It's used when we want to express that we're trying to correct a mistake or make something right. Make up to is less common and is mainly used when we're trying to apologize or make amends with someone.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of make up for and make up to

Make up for and make up to 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 make up for and make up to

The tone of make up for and make up to can differ based on context. Make up for often carries a regretful or apologetic tone when related to compensating for a mistake or loss, while make up to typically has a friendly and conciliatory tone, especially when referring to regaining someone's favor or affection.

make up for & make up to: Synonyms and Antonyms

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