Make up for

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phrasal verb

To compensate for something bad with something good.

She made up for being late by working later in the evening.
Visual representation of "make up for" - To compensate for something bad with something good

Often appears as...

  • make up for lost time
  • make up for mistakes
Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "make up for"
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Emotional Balance

Used when someone tries to emotionally rectify a mistake or bad experience.

Illustration for Emotional Balance
After forgetting her birthday, he made up for it with a surprise party.
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Not Always Equal

The action to 'make up for' something doesn't always completely fix the situation.

Illustration for Not Always Equal
He tried to make up for the argument with flowers.
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Positive Action

Involves an action that is positively viewed and attempts to improve a previous negative situation.

Illustration for Positive Action
To make up for the canceled trip, they went to a local amusement park.
Visual representation of the word "Make up for"

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