MAKE (SOMETHING) UP
To make up something (or make something up) is to invent a story or excuse. This can be something written or said in order to deceive (a lie), or a story or game to entertain.
Examples of use:
- He made up lies about me.
- The politician said that the newspaper reporter made up the information about her expenses claim.
- The children made up a wonderful game about dragons and kings and queens.
- It’s wrong to make up stories about people.
| infinitive | make up |
| present simple | make up and makes up |
| -ing form | making up |
| past simple | made up |
| past participle | made up |