What are the definitions of “make up to”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 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'
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “make up to”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb make up to is to increase a sum received to a higher figure. It is often used when someone adds more money or resources to reach a specific goal or target.
What are the different verb forms of “make up to”?
| Root Verb | make up to |
| Third Person Singular Present | makes up to |
| Present Participle | making up to |
| Simple Past | made up to |
| Past Participle | made 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.
Example
He is making up to the goal by asking for additional donations.
Example
They made up to the desired amount by selling their old belongings.
Example
The shortfall was made up to by the generous contributions of the community.
What kind of phrasal verb is “make up to”?
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 to” 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 company made up to the required amount by adding extra funds.
Example
She made the total up to £25,000 by contributing her own savings.
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 to” 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 company made up to the required amount by adding extra funds.
Example
She made the total up to £25,000 by contributing her own savings.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “make up to”?
Make up for
To compensate for a loss, mistake, or deficiency.
Example
He worked extra hours to make up for the time he took off last week.
Make up one's mind
To decide or reach a conclusion.
Example
She finally made up her mind and chose the blue dress.
Make up a story
To create a fictional story or lie.
Example
He made up a story about being late because he didn't want to admit he overslept.
Good things to know
Does “make up to” have an informal or formal tone?
Make up to 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 financial discussions.
