What are the definitions of “make over”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Change appearance.
The beauty salon gave her a MAKEOVER before the party.
- 2Give money or possessions to someone in a legal way.
She MADE OVER her property to her children.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “make over”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb make over is to change someone's appearance, usually by applying makeup, changing hairstyle, or wearing new clothes. It often refers to a significant transformation in a person's look.
What are the different verb forms of “make over”?
| Root Verb | make over |
| Third Person Singular Present | makes over |
| Present Participle | making over |
| Simple Past | made over |
| Past Participle | made over |
Example
The stylist decided to make her over for the big event.
Example
She makes over her clients before their photoshoots.
Example
The team is making over the contestants for the fashion show.
Example
He made over his friend for the wedding.
Example
The room was made over with new furniture and decorations.
What kind of phrasal verb is “make over”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“make over” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
The stylist made her over for the party.
Example
She made over her property to her children.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“make over” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
The stylist made her over for the party.
Example
She made over her property to her children.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “make over”?
Makeover
A process of changing someone's appearance, often for a special event or to improve their look.
Example
She got a makeover at the salon before her birthday party.
Good things to know
Does “make over” have an informal or formal tone?
Make over is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, such as business meetings or legal discussions.
