Differences between make up and make for
Make up usually means to invent or create something, or to reconcile with someone after a disagreement, whereas make for generally means to move towards a destination or to contribute to a particular outcome.
Meanings and Definitions: make up vs make for
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
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.
Make for
- 1Head in a certain direction.
We MADE FOR home when it started raining.
- 2Produce a result or situation.
The low quality of the service MADE FOR a lot of dissatisfaction.
Usage Examples: make up, make for in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
make up
Example
They always argue, but they make up quickly.
Example
She makes up with her sister after every fight.
make for
Example
When the storm approached, we made for the nearest shelter.
Example
She makes for the bus stop every morning.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Make up
To invent or create something, especially a story or an excuse.
Example
He fabricated a story about being sick to avoid going to work.
To create or write something, especially music, poetry, or literature.
Example
She composed a beautiful song for her best friend's wedding.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Make for
head for
To move towards a particular destination or goal.
Example
We need to head for the airport if we want to catch our flight.
To help or have an effect on achieving a particular outcome or result.
Example
His hard work and dedication contributed to the success of the project.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “make”
Phrasal Verbs with “up”
Phrasal Verbs with “for”
Differences in make up vs make for: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: make up or make for?
In daily conversation, people use make up more often than make for. This is because make up is used in various contexts such as makeup, storytelling, and reconciliation. Make for is not used as much, but it's still a common phrase that people use when talking about going somewhere or contributing to a particular outcome.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of make up and make for
Make up and make for 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 and make for
The tone of make up and make for can differ based on context. Make up often carries a creative or apologetic tone when related to inventing or reconciling, while make for typically has a practical and goal-oriented tone, especially when referring to moving towards a destination or contributing to a particular outcome.
