Differences between make up and take up
Make up usually means to invent or create something, or to reconcile with someone after a disagreement, whereas take up generally means to start a new hobby or activity, or to occupy space or time.
Meanings and Definitions: make up vs take up
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.
Take up
- 1Fill or occupy time or space.
An awful lot of my time at work is TAKEN UP with pointless bureaucracy nowadays.
- 2Make clothes shorter.
The trousers were too long so I TOOK them UP to make them fit.
- 3Start a new hobby, pastime, etc..
He TOOK UP squash as he felt he had to lose some weight.
Usage Examples: make up, take up 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.
take up
Example
She decided to take up painting as a way to relax.
Example
He takes up a new hobby every year to challenge himself.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Make up
To invent or create something, often a story or excuse.
Example
He had to fabricate an excuse for being late to the meeting.
To create or devise something, often a plan or scheme.
Example
She concocted a plan to surprise her best friend on her birthday.
To create or write something, often a poem, song, or letter.
Example
He spent hours composing a love letter to his girlfriend.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Take up
pick up
To learn or acquire a new skill or habit.
Example
He wanted to pick up a new language before traveling to Europe.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “make”
Phrasal Verbs with “take”
Differences in make up vs take up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: make up or take up?
In daily conversation, people use make up more often than take up. This is because make up is used for more common situations such as making up a story or making up with a friend after an argument. Take up is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about starting a new hobby or activity. So, while both phrases are used, make up is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of make up and take up
Make up and take 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 make up and take up
The tone of make up and take up can differ based on context. Make up often carries a creative or apologetic tone when related to inventing or reconciling, while take up typically has an enthusiastic and proactive tone, especially when referring to starting a new hobby or activity.
