What are the definitions of “make up for”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Compensate.
I sent her a present to try to MAKE UP FOR my appalling behaviour.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “make up for”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb make up for is to compensate for something, usually a mistake, loss, or deficiency. It means to do something to correct or improve a situation that was previously negative or unsatisfactory.
What are the different verb forms of “make up for”?
| Root Verb | make up for |
| Third Person Singular Present | makes up for |
| Present Participle | making up for |
| Simple Past | made up for |
| Past Participle | made up for |
Example
I will make up for my mistake by working harder.
Example
She makes up for her lack of experience with enthusiasm.
Example
He is making up for lost time by studying extra hours.
Example
They made up for their previous loss by winning the next game.
Example
The beautiful view made up for the long hike.
What kind of phrasal verb is “make up for”?
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 up for” 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
She made up for her mistake by apologizing.
Example
He made up for his absence by working on the weekend.
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 up for” 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
She made up for her mistake by apologizing.
Example
He made up for his absence by working on the weekend.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “make up for”?
Make up the difference
To provide the remaining amount needed to reach a certain level or goal.
Example
The charity event didn't raise enough money, so the company decided to make up the difference.
Good things to know
Does “make up for” have an informal or formal tone?
Make up for is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as business meetings or academic discussions.
