Writing Explained

Makeup or Make Up – What’s the Difference?

Home » Makeup or Make Up – What’s the Difference?

When you put cosmetics on your face to look pretty on a date, are you using makeup or make up ?

You are probably beautiful just the way you are, and you don’t need to worry about either of those things, but if you work for a cosmetics company and you are in charge of designing ads, you will need to know the difference between these words.

The short story is that one is a noun and one is a verb, but, for a more in-depth discussion, continue reading.

What is the Difference Between Makeup and Make Up?

In this post, I will compare makeup vs. make up . I will use each term in some example sentences, which will give you an idea how they should appear in context.

I will also demonstrate how to use a mnemonic device that makes choosing make up or makeup a little easier.

When to Use Makeup

makeup versus make up

For example,

  • Julia spends 45 minutes each morning putting on her makeup in the bathroom, which annoys Aries.
  • Greg’s last job was in the advertising department of company that sells makeup.

Makeup is a category of products. There are several different types of makeup. People use lipstick to color their lips. Eyeliner, eye shadow, and mascara all emphasize the eyes. Foundation and blush even out and accentuate the color of facial skin. There are other types of makeup, as well. For a more in-depth discussion, consult a cosmetologist.

Makeup can also refer to the composition of something. For example, the chemical makeup of something.

  • But there are limits to applying the Hawaii model to the rest of the nation, especially considering this state’s unique economy and political makeup. – The Washington Post

When to Use Make Up

definition of makeup definition of make up definition

  • I need to make up a test that I missed last week, or I will not be able to graduate. (Complete something that was postponed)
  • Make up a template for these body routs so that we will be able to make clean, even cuts. (Create something)
  • I asked where he had been all day, but he just made up a story. (Fabricate a false event or story)

Here is another example of make-up being used to indicate the completion of something postponed.

  • With 20 confirmed cases of measles in New York City, now is a good time to check your children’s vaccination records, make up for any shots missed because of illness or travel and reconsider any stance your family might have taken on delaying or refusing vaccinations. – The New York Times

When this term is constructed as the hyphenated compound make-up , it becomes an adjective , like in the phrases make-up game or make-up test . These phrases describe events that had to be postponed, and are now taking place at a later date instead.

Also, make-up artist , make-up remover , make-up bag .

Trick to Remember the Difference

how do you spell makeup

Now, let’s go over a trick to keep track of make up vs. makeup . Since makeup is a compound noun, like the compound nouns takeout and kickoff , the construction of the word is you clue that makeup is a noun.

Is it makeup or make up? As with many compound nouns and phrasal verbs, these terms are only separated by a single space.

  • Makeup is a noun.
  • Make up is a verb phrase.

Their usage cases do not overlap; you can only use make up as a verb and makeup as a noun.

Grammar Monster Logo

paper-free learning

menu

  • conjunctions
  • determiners
  • interjections
  • prepositions
  • affect vs effect
  • its vs it's
  • your vs you're
  • which vs that
  • who vs whom
  • who's vs whose
  • averse vs adverse
  • 250+ more...
  • apostrophes
  • quotation marks
  • lots more...
  • common writing errors
  • FAQs by writers
  • awkward plurals
  • ESL vocabulary lists
  • all our grammar videos
  • idioms and proverbs
  • Latin terms
  • collective nouns for animals
  • tattoo fails
  • vocabulary categories
  • most common verbs
  • top 10 irregular verbs
  • top 10 regular verbs
  • top 10 spelling rules
  • improve spelling
  • common misspellings
  • role-play scenarios
  • favo(u)rite word lists
  • multiple-choice test
  • Tetris game
  • grammar-themed memory game
  • 100s more...

Makeup, Make-up, or Make Up?

"makeup," "make-up," or "make up".

  • For the noun and adjective, use "makeup."

correct tick

  • For the verb , use "make up."

makeup, make-up, or make up?

Do I Write Make-up, Makeup, or Make Up?

Write makeup (for the noun).

wrong cross

Write Makeup (for the Adjective)

Write make up (for the verb).

author logo

This page was written by Craig Shrives .

Learning Resources

more actions:

This test is printable and sendable

Help Us Improve Grammar Monster

  • Do you disagree with something on this page?
  • Did you spot a typo?

Find Us Quicker!

  • When using a search engine (e.g., Google, Bing), you will find Grammar Monster quicker if you add #gm to your search term.

You might also like...

Share This Page

share icon

If you like Grammar Monster (or this page in particular), please link to it or share it with others. If you do, please tell us . It helps us a lot!

share icon

Create a QR Code

create QR code

Use our handy widget to create a QR code for this page...or any page.

< previous lesson

X Twitter logo

next lesson >

Makeup, make-up or make up

Photo of author

| Grammarist

Photo of author

Makeup is 1.) cosmetics 2.) the composition of something 3.) in American English, a special test or assignment given to a student who has missed a test or assignment. Make up is used as a noun or an adjective. Makeup may also be rendered as the hyphenated make-up , though since the 1980s the hyphen has been dropped for the most part. The word makeup was coined in 1821 to mean manner in which something is put together, it was first used to mean cosmetics in 1886.

Make up is a verb phrase which means 1.) to compose 2.) to invent 3.) to arrange 4.) to apply cosmetics 5.) to reconcile after a quarrel. Make up is also used as an adjective.

Examples The Columbian singer celebrated her 39th birthday by reminding us all how glowing she is without a drop of makeup on, posting a picture of her “birthday bun” on her official social media accounts. ( USA Today ) And at this point she might as well just move into Lagerfeld’s guest room, she’s got so much going on for the brand — after all, it was just announced that she’ll front its next makeup campaign. ( People Magazin e) Gender makeup of Allegheny County Council a concern for some ( The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette ) That was the makeup of Arsenal’s midfield for their FA Cup fourth round clash with Burnley at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday, with Mohamed Elneny making his debut, Francis Coquelin back from injury and Alex Iwobi handed only a third start of his senior career. ( The National ) Stacy Caldwell, College Board’s vice president for college readiness assessment, said the makeup test will probably be scheduled in a month or so, according to Associated Press. ( The South China Morning POst ) Kristen Stewart has landed an amazing new beauty gig: she’s the new face of Chanel make-up. ( Marie Claire Magazine ) John Elway realizes as well as anyone just how difficult a decision it is for an elite quarterback to retire, and he has no plans of putting pressure on Peyton Manning to make up his mind right away. ( The Columbus Dispatch ) If you missed Bruce Springsteen’s Madison Square Garden concert due to Mother Nature’s interference, the Boss has something to make up for the disappointment. ( Billboard Magazine )

Grammarist is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. When you buy via the links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.

2024 © Grammarist, a Found First Marketing company. All rights reserved.

make up speech meaning

Two Minute English

‘Makeup’ or ‘Make Up’: Understanding the Correct Usage and Differences

Marcus Froland

March 28, 2024

English is full of words that look and sound similar, yet hold different meanings . It’s easy to mix them up, especially when they’re as close as ‘makeup’ and ‘make up’. You might think it’s just a matter of spacing, but there’s more to it. Each term has its own unique place in the language, serving separate purposes.

Understanding the distinction can sharpen your writing skills and boost your confidence in using English. It’s not just about cosmetics versus resolving an argument; these phrases weave into conversations and texts in ways you might not expect. So let’s clear up any confusion and make sure you know exactly when to use each one.

The main subject of this article is the difference between “ makeup ” and “ make up .” Makeup refers to products like lipstick or powder applied to the face. It’s used to enhance or change one’s appearance. On the other hand, make up is a verb phrase. It means to create something, to compensate for something, or to reconcile after a disagreement. Although they sound similar, their meanings and uses in sentences are quite distinct. Remember, “makeup” is a noun that describes beauty products, while “make up” is an action phrase about creating or fixing something.

Exploring the Definitions: Makeup as a Noun

Unraveling the makeup definition and understanding its various nuances is crucial. As a noun, makeup primarily refers to decorative cosmetics applied to enhance or alter one’s appearance. This term encompasses a wide array of products designed to accentuate facial features.

  • Highlighter

Beyond the realm of cosmetic makeup , the noun ‘makeup’ delves further into a variety of meanings. For instance, it can denote the composition of an item, such as the chemical constitution, or reveal the underlying structure of a group or entity.

Here are a few examples that demonstrate the diverse makeup noun usage :

“The makeup of the metal alloy allows it to be both strong and lightweight.”
“The nation’s diverse cultural makeup gives it a unique blend of traditions and customs.”
“The political makeup of the city council has shifted considerably after the recent elections.”

As evident from these examples, the versatility of ‘makeup’ as a noun extends from decorative cosmetics to the very composition and structure of various entities. Understanding these different contexts allows for accurate and appropriate usage of the term in written and spoken language.

The Role of “Make Up” as a Verb Phrase

The verb phrase ‘make up’ involves combining the verb ‘make’ with the preposition ‘up,’ classifying it as a phrasal verb. Phrasal verbs like ‘make up’ are never merged into one word or hyphenated and have a variety of meanings, including to compose, invent, arrange, or apply cosmetics.

How “Make Up” Fits into Phrasal Verbs

Phrasal verbs consist of a verb and a particle, like a preposition or an adverb, which together convey a specific meaning. The complexity of phrasal verbs lies in their versatility and potential for multiple interpretations based on context. Some common phrasal verbs with “make up” and their meanings include:

  • Make up for – to compensate or make amends
  • Make up with – to reconcile or settle differences
  • Make up one’s mind – to make a decision
  • Make up a story – to invent or fabricate a tale

“Make Up” in Everyday Language

In everyday language, ‘make up’ takes on several meanings beyond its use in cosmetics. It can refer to compensating for a missed event, fabricating a story, participating in postponed activities, or resolving differences after a conflict. It remains an open compound, preserving its versatility across various contexts. Some examples of ‘make up’ in everyday sentences are:

She had to make up the missed exam on Monday.
After their argument, the couple decided to make up and move forward.
He always makes up stories to entertain his friends at parties.

As demonstrated, ‘make up’ is a versatile and essential phrasal verb in the English language, adaptable to multiple situations and meanings. Understanding the correct verb usage and the various ways it can be applied in everyday language is crucial for effective communication.

Historical Evolution of the Word “Makeup”

The term “makeup” boasts a rich makeup word history that illustrates how language evolves with cultural shifts. Over time, the evolution of makeup term has progressed from describing the manner in which something is put together to primarily referring to cosmetics. Let’s explore the fascinating journey this versatile term has undergone to better understand the history of cosmetics terminology.

  • 1821: The term “makeup” first appeared in written form, referring to the manner in which something is put together or its composition.
  • 1886: “Makeup” finally found its way into the cosmetics realm, used to describe cosmetic products applied to enhance one’s appearance.
  • 1900s: The hyphenated form “make-up” emerged, garnering popularity in the early to mid-20th century.
  • 1980s: The unhyphenated form “makeup” started gaining traction and eventually became the predominant term in contemporary usage.

In today’s world, the term “makeup” most commonly refers to cosmetic products, and its use in this context can be traced back to the late 19th century.

“Makeup” is no longer considered a hyphenated word; instead, it now exists as a single, cohesive term – a testament to the ever-evolving nature of language.

Despite the significant changes this term has undergone, one constant remains: the term’s versatility. “Makeup” can still refer to the composition of an entity or group, indicating that its original meaning has not been entirely lost. Instead, new meanings and usages have been layered onto the term, reflecting the cultural and societal shifts in the history of cosmetics terminology.

Examples in Context: When to Use “Makeup” and “Make Up”

In order to fully understand and correctly use the terms “makeup” and “make up,” it is helpful to view examples in context. Let us explore their usage in the beauty industry and various practical applications.

Using “Makeup” in the Beauty Industry

In the beauty industry, “makeup” is the preferred term for describing cosmetic products, which include eye shadow, lipstick, and foundation. Brands like MAC, Maybelline, and L’Oréal often showcase a wide array of makeup types through advertisements and marketing initiatives. The term also extends to professionals involved in the industry, such as a makeup artist who primarily works on enhancing or transforming someone’s appearance using makeup.

Practical Applications of the Verb “Make Up”

As a verb, “make up” is versatile, encompassing an array of meanings and applications. Here are some examples:

  • Preparing for a performance: A makeup artist may make up an actor’s face before they go on stage or appear on camera.
  • Completing postponed tasks: A student who missed an examination due to illness might have to make up the test at a later date.
  • Creating templates: A woodworker could make up a template to ensure precise cuts for a carpentry project.
  • Reconciling personal differences: Two friends who had a disagreement might decide to talk through their issues and make up .
  • Inventing stories: A creative writer can make up a fictional tale about a magical world for a children’s book.

These examples illustrate the breadth of the verb phrase “make up” across various situations, clearly demonstrating its utility in everyday language.

The Grammatical Perspective: Noun versus Verb Usage

In order to understand the correct usage of ‘makeup’ and ‘make up,’ it is important to understand their respective roles in grammar. Both terms may seem similar at first glance, but they serve distinct functions in sentences. ‘Makeup’ operates as a noun, while ‘make up’ serves as a verb phrase. This fundamental grammatical distinction paves the way for their usage and meanings in written and spoken language.

Makeup finds its application as a noun, describing cosmetic products or concepts related to them. For instance, a sentence might read, “She applied her makeup before the party,” in which ‘makeup’ refers to cosmetic products applied to enhance one’s appearance. In another example, “The chemical makeup of the product is impressive,” the term embodies the composition or constitution of the item.

Makeup refers to cosmetic products or concepts, functioning as a noun within sentences.

Conversely, make up is used as a verb phrase, indicating specific actions or activities. For example, the sentence “She decided to make up a story to avoid punishment” demonstrates the use of ‘make up’ as a verb phrase meaning to invent or create something fictional. Additionally, the phrase can be applied in the context of applying makeup, such as in the sentence “He will make up the actors for the performance.”

Make up is used as a verb phrase, illustrating specific actions or activities.

To further clarify the grammatical distinctions between ‘makeup’ and ‘make up,’ let’s break down the parts of speech commonly found in a sentence. Nouns often function as the subject or the object in a sentence, while verbs serve to express actions, events, or processes. Based on these roles, it becomes significantly easier to identify the accurate usage of ‘makeup’ and ‘make up.’

Discerning the correct usage of ‘makeup’ and ‘make up’ is essential not only for clarity but also for accurate communication. Having a firm grasp of their grammatical roles as a noun and verb phrase, respectively, is key to using them properly in written and spoken language. By adhering to these fundamental grammar rules, you can ensure that your communication is precise and effective.

Clarifying Misconceptions and Summarizing Uses

When it comes to understanding the precise usage of ‘makeup’ and ‘make up,’ clarity is essential. By addressing misconceptions and refining your knowledge, you can ensure accurate communication in various contexts. ‘Makeup’ always represents a noun, referring to cosmetic products or the composition of an object. In contrast, ‘make up’ is a verb phrase highlighting actions or processes, such as cosmetic application or inventing a story.

Both terms play different roles in language expression, and distinguishing their grammatical purposes will improve your writing and conversation skills. Keep in mind that ‘makeup’ denotes physical products or concepts, such as lipstick or the political makeup of a group. Conversely, the verb phrase ‘make up’ reveals specific actions, like applying cosmetics or reconciling personal differences.

By acknowledging these distinctions, you can successfully navigate a wide range of situations, from discussing beauty techniques to illustrating personal experiences. Ultimately, understanding the correct usage of ‘makeup’ and ‘make up’ enables you to express yourself more effectively and confidently, fostering clearer communication in your professional and personal life.

Share this:

Two minute english.

English Made Simple: Two-Minute Lessons for Busy Learners

Copyright © 2024 • TwoMinEnglish.com

Phrasal Verbs Explained website logo

PHRASAL VERBS EXPLAINED

An explanation of english phrasal verbs for learners with examples of how they are used by native speakers..

  • 10 min read

The Phrasal Verb 'Make Up' Explained

Updated: Mar 19

An explanation of the different meanings of the English phrasal verb 'make up', with examples and exercises.

A young girl applying make up to a man's face

Hello and welcome to my website for English learners all about English phrasal verbs! Read on to learn more about the phrasal verb ' make up '...

This week's blog post is all about the phrasal verb ' make up ', which is definitely one that you will have come across before as it is super common and is one that I have used many times on these blog posts before. In this post we will look at its different meanings including inventing stories, making a decision and applying cosmetics. So, without further do, let's get started....don't forget to leave a comment at the end 😊

KEY INFORMATION

For more explanation of the terms in the table above, click here

The letters A-G spelled out in different coloured plasticine

The phrasal verb ' make up ' is formed of the verb 'to make ' and the prepositional particle ' up '.

The verb 'to make ' is a very common verb and is often confused with the verb 'to do ' by English learners as the two are quite similar and can often be translated into other languages as the same word. Both 'to make ' and 'to do ' have an extensive number of uses in English, but one of the main ideas of the verb 'to make ' is creation and production, while a dominant idea of 'to do' , in contrast, is performing an action. This concept of 'to make ' will be useful to keep in mind when we look at the different uses of ' make up ' shortly.

Next we have the particle ' up ', meaning a movement in the direction away from the ground or towards the sky ↑. When we combine these words, there is no literal meaning whatsoever, so let's just move straight on to the different figurative meanings.....

MEANING 1: To make peace after an argument

Two people shaking hands in the sunlight

Let's start off the meanings of ' make up ' on a positive note. For this we are going to need the additional preposition ' with ' and the reason for this is that 'to make up with someone' means to reconcile or become friends with them again after an argument or disagreement.

' Make up ' is not just limited to friendships though, and is used a lot to talk about romantic couples who have disagreements or break up and then make peace again afterwards. The use of this meaning is, however, limited to personal relationships and is not used so much to describe business or professional relationships.

One expression that we often use in a tongue-in-cheek* way to talk about when people reconcile following a dispute or argument is "to kiss and make up ". This is used regardless of whether or not the people in question are friends or in a romantic relationship.

A variation of ' make up ' that you may hear is 'to make it up ', which has the same meaning. This is especially common in the past form i.e. ' made it up '.

Examples of usage....

All John and Helen seem to do is break up and then make up the next day.
I wish you and your brother would make up !
She's deeply offended and refuses to make up with me.

* The expression 'tongue-in-cheek' is used to describe something that is not seriously intended and used in a jokey or humorous way.

MEANING 2: To invent a story or information

A man typing something on a typewriter

For our second usage of ' make up' , we are entering into the realm of fantasy and fairy tales as the meaning is 'to invent or create something that does not exist by using the powers of our imagination'. These imaginary creations can range from stories, characters and people to excuses, lies and false information. The key idea is that it is created in our imagination and is not real.

Unsurprisingly, this meaning is used very commonly with children who tend to enjoy making up stories, characters and scenarios as part of their play activities. However, as you will know, adults are also very good at creating fictional information, excuses and lies and this usage of ' make up ' can therefore be used with both innocent and immoral intent.

Aside from the verb form, the past particle ' made-up ' is also frequently used as an adjective (note the hyphen) to describe something fictional that someone has invented and as such, you will often hear such terms as " made-up story" and " made-up word", among many others.

When I was a child, I used to make up imaginary friends because I was lonely.
I didn't go to the party - I was too tired so I made up an excuse and said thatI was ill.
Although the novel features made-up characters, the story is based on real life events.

The word 'tips' spelled out using wooden blocks

EXTRA INFORMATION TO SOUND MORE LIKE A NATIVE SPEAKER

There are a couple of well-known expressions of this usage of ' make up ' that I really like and want to make you aware of...

You couldn't make it up - We use this expression when talking about things that happen in reality that are so strange or bizarre that a person would not be able to create them using their imagination.

To make it up as you go along - This second expression is used for situations in which we do not know what we are doing and we just do things by instinct, without preparation or planning. We decide how to do it in the present moment (and hope for the best).

MEANING 3: To constitute a whole

A pie chart on a card showing different percentages with a pen on top

For our third meaning of ' make up ', we need to make a 180 degree turn away from the poetic world of fantasy to the much more prosaic and serious world of data, statistics and facts. This meaning of ' make up ' is 'to form or to constitute a whole and is used to talk about the different elements or things which combine together to form something bigger or complete.

This meaning of ' make up ' is commonly used in statistical information, especially when talking about percentages and fractions.

It is estimated that the 100 most common words in any language make up about 50% of the words regularly used in it.
Greyscale colours currently make up three quarters of cars produced worldwide.

Furthermore, ' make up ' is also used when we have already given percentages or proportions and we want to talk about the part that completes the remainder of the group. We can use ' make up ' here, often with the 'the rest' or 'the remaining X%'.

The three of us have all paid a quarter of the bill each, so if you could also pay a quarter and make up the rest, it would be great. INTENDED MEANING: We've all paid our share of 25%, so if you can pay the final 25% and the remainder of the bill, it would be really good.
In the English exam the weighting of the speaking section is 40%, the listening section is 30% and the reading and writing sections together make up the remaining 30%. INTENDED MEANING: The weightings for the English exam are 40% for speaking, 30% for reading and the remaining 30% will be for reading and writing combined.

Lastly, it is very common to use the passive form ' made up ' with the additional preposition ' of ' to express the different things which something consists of.

Air is made up of nitrogen, oxygen, argon and small amounts of many other gases.
All matter is made up of very small particles known as atoms.

MEANING 4: To compensate for something

A piece of paper with "Sorry" written on it and a smiley face

Our next usage of ' make up ' is one that is very common in the workplace. If you work for a company in the anglophone world and you need to take some time off e.g. for a doctor's appointment, your boss may authorise the time off but might also say that you need to make the time up .

The reason for this is because the next usage of ' make up ' means to compensate for something that is lost, lacking or missing. The example above with working hours is a very commonly used one in the English speaking world.

Another typical way that this usage of ' make up ' can be heard in English is when we have a target or required amount of something e.g. money and we do not have enough of it to reach the target amount. We can use ' make up ' here to talk about the amount that is required in order to reach our target amount, i.e. the difference between how much we have and how much we need to have.

A common expression featuring this usage of ' make up ' that you may hear is 'to make up for lost time', which we use to describe when we do something more quickly, intensely or regularly, in order to compensate for not having done it in the past. For obvious reasons this is often used by middle-aged and older people, perhaps during or after a midlife crisis!

Yes, you can have the time off this week to go to the funeral but can you please make the time up next week.
Now that my injury has healed I'm training more than ever as I'm making up for lost time!

If you are ever in a situation where an English speaker disappoints you in some way, it is likely that they will say sorry (especially British people as we apologise for everything) and that they will make it up to you.

In the case of disappointing someone, as mentioned above, the idea here links back to the first meaning of making peace following an argument, but the focus here is that we are saying we will do something to remove the negative feelings caused by the disappointment (essentially apologising), with the end objective being reconciliation and peace.

Note that the extra particle ' to ' is required here to designate the person who we have disappointed and want to make happy again.

I'm so sorry that I forgot your birthday. Let me make it up to you by taking you out for a meal.
I can't be there this weekend but I will make it up to you, I promise!

MEANING 5: To prepare something from ingredients or parts

Different food ingredients on a green background

The fifth usage of ' make up ' means to prepare, build or create something by combining different ingredients or parts.

As you can probably imagine from the word 'ingredients', food is frequently used with this meaning of ' make up ' and it is very common to use this with any dish or item that can be made by mixing and combining different ingredients together.

Another example of where this meaning of ' make up ' is in common usage is with material and fabric where we create garments or curtains. Moreover, we can also say that we ' make up a bed for someone' when we create a new, often temporary, bed for them using blankets etc. This is different to making a bed, where we arrange the blanket and pillows on an existing bed.

Let me give you some tips on how to make up an amazing and tasty casserole. I
You can sleep here tonight, I will make up a bed for you in the spare room.

MEANING 6: To apply cosmetics

Someone applying lipstick to a woman's lips

For our sixth meaning of ' make up ', we are diving into the world of cosmetics. I'm sure that most of you reading will be familiar with the noun makeup , meaning cosmetic products that are used to add colour to the face and change or improve one's appearance. It may therefore come as no surprise to you that the noun makeup is derived directly from our sixth phrasal verb meaning, which is to apply cosmetics to the face and body.

For this usage, reflexive pronouns (myself, yourself etc.) are required when talking about a person who is applying their own makeup . This is of course not the case for people who get their makeup applied by somebody else e.g. actors and celebrities.

Although this usage is still used in everyday English, I would say that the construction 'to do your makeup ' is perhaps more common than this phrasal verb form, but it is good to be aware of it nevertheless.

Example of usage....

Lisa made herself up and put on her best evening gown.

Meaning 7: To decide

A man holding his head and looking at his laptop

This final meaning of ' make up ' that I want to bring to your attention means to make a decision and is used in the construction "to make up your mind ". This is actually more of an idiomatic expression than an entirely different meaning, but it is so common that I wanted to include it as a separate meaning of its own.

The structure of this expression is flexible and 'mind' can be placed both in the middle of and after the phrasal verb ' make up ', without changing the meaning.

John took ages to make up his mind about what food to order at the restaurant.
I've made my mind up about where I want to go to university.

The word 'bonus' spelled out by different coloured balloons being held up by different people's hands

One extra thing to make you aware of before the end of this post is the expression "to be made up about something ". This is a common idiomatic expression in British English to mean to be delighted or extremely happy about something, normally good news.

That's amazing news! I'm made up for you.
Roger is made up about his new work contract!

Question marks set against different coloured speech bubbles

EXERCISE Re-write the following sentences using 'to make up '....

Helen and Lisa had an argument last week but they are friends again now.

I didn't want to go to work today so I invented a fake illness and called in sick.

Vegetarians now constitute 10% of the British population.

I had a dentist appointment this morning so I have to work extra hours this evening to compensate.

You can sleep here tonight, I will prepare a bed for you in the spare room.

She needs to make a decision about what she wants to do by this evening.

The answers will be available on next week's post.

EXERCISE ANSWERS FROM 'COME OVER' (other variations may be possible)

Do you want to COME OVER to mine tonight for dinner?

My grandparents CAME OVER here from Europe after the war.

The speech CAME OVER very well.

I suddenly CAME OVER all hot and sweaty and needed a drink of water.

One minute he was fine and then all of a sudden he CAME OVER all angry.

I've changed my view on the matter and have COME OVER to your way of thinking.

This brings us to the end of the post, so thanks very much for reading. Now it is YOUR turn.....leave a comment on the blog post with your own sentence using ' make up '....don't be shy!!!

If you found the post useful, please like and share it on social media, so together we can help as many English learners as possible to understand and master these tricky phrasal verbs. Sign up on

  • Up Phrasal Verbs

Related Posts

The Phrasal Verb 'Stand Up' Explained

The Phrasal Verb 'Pick Up' Explained

The Phrasal Verb 'Back Up' Explained

I am MADE UP to learn about these different meanings of make up 😀

I am made up that you are made up! Thanks for the comment 😁

JOIN THE MAILING LIST TO RECEIVE NEW POSTS DIRECT IN YOUR INBOX!

Thanks for submitting! A new phrasal verb post will be emailed to you every Friday!

make up speech meaning

‘Makeup' or 'Make Up': What's the Difference Between the Two?

make up speech meaning

'Makeup' or 'make up:' you might have seen these two words spelled differently and wondered whether there's a difference. If so, you've come to the right place. In this article, we'll reveal the meaning of each word and how to use it.

Short version:

  • 'Makeup is a noun . It means either cosmetics, someone's personal constitution, etc.
  • 'Make up' is a verb that means to invent something in your imagination, or do put something together, etc. There are more definitions below.

What's the Difference Between 'Makeup' and 'Make Up'?

As I mentioned in the intro, 'makeup' and 'make up' are different parts of speech. One is a noun, while the other is a phrasal verb.

Let's take a deeper look at what each word means and when to use them.

What Does 'Makeup' Mean?

'Makeup' is a noun that has two different meanings.

It can refer to cosmetics people use to beautify their faces, such as lipstick or mascara.

For example:

I don't feel like wearing makeup today.

It can also refer to someone or something's constitution.

He can't help but behave selfishly; it's just part of his makeup.

Like most nouns, 'makeup' can also function as an attributive noun, which is similar to an adjective . It means you can use the word to modify another noun. In that way, it takes on a third meaning: something you do as a replacement for something you didn't do before or failed.

I failed my English test, but I have a makeup exam on Friday .

You could also use 'makeup' in the cosmetics sense as an attributive noun.

Have you seen my makeup box?

What Does 'Make Up' Mean?

As mentioned previously, 'make up' is a phrasal verb. A phrasal verb is a verb made up of two words - normally a verb and then another word (usually a preposition or particle).

Knowing this helps you know which is which when you see it in a sentence. If you know that phrasal verbs are made up of two words, if you see the spelling with two words, you'll know it's the verb.

But what does it mean? There are several definitions:

  • To create or invent something with your imagination (usually a lie) Example: Why do you always make up excuses?
  • To form a part of something Example: These are the employees that make up the team.
  • To make up for something you missed Example: You'll need to make up the hours you missed while you were away.
  • To reconcile after an argument Example: It's time for your kids to make up.

Pronunciation: How to Pronounce 'Makeup' or 'Make Up'

Now we're clear on the meaning of each word, would you like to know how to pronounce them?

The good news is that they sound exactly the same, so you'll only have to practice the pronunciation once. They sound like this:

[ meyk-uhp ]

Or, if you want to know the International Phonetics Alphabet spelling (for grammar geeks like me!), it goes like this:

/ ˈmeɪkˌʌp /

When to Use 'Makeup' or 'Make Up'

Let's take a look at some examples of these two words used in a sentence, so you can better understand how to use them in context. We'll start with the noun' makeup.'

Examples of 'Makeup'

I study the genetic makeup of natural organisms. I always wear makeup at the office . The cleansing process interferes with the water's chemical makeup. This country's too hot to wear makeup! The makeup quiz is much easier.

Examples of 'Make Up'

Now let's look at some example sentences using 'make up.' Since it's a verb, I'll use different conjugations so you can see how it applies in context.

We would have made up a long time ago if he'd only apologize . Are you making this up as you go along? I'm sorry I canceled our date; I'd like to make it up to you. Their new fashion line will be made up of lots of bright colors . I don't know how to get out of this commitment; I might have to make up some mysterious illness.

Concluding Thoughts

So there you have it: the difference between 'makeup' and 'make up.' I hope this article has helped you feel more confident about using each word. Here's what we've learned, in summary:

  • 'Makeup' is a noun and must be spelled with one word
  • 'Make up' is a phrasal verb and must be spelled with two separate words

If you'd like to learn about more confusing words, we've covered lots of those over on our blog . Check it out!

Learn More:

  • 'Checkup' or 'Check up': What's the Difference?
  • 'Kickoff' or 'Kick-Off' or 'Kick Off': Where Should We Place the Hyphen?
  • 'Patients' vs 'Patience': What's the Difference Between the Two?
  • ‘Shelve' or 'Shelf': What's the Difference Between the Two?
  • 'Smelled' or 'Smelt': What's the Difference Between the Two?
  • ‘Ware' vs 'Wear': What's the Difference Between the Two?
  • 'Angel' vs. 'Angle': What's the Difference?
  • 'Casted' vs 'Cast': What's the Difference?
  • ‘Freshmen' or 'Freshman': What's the Difference?
  • ‘Dialog' or 'Dialogue': What's the Difference?
  • ‘Drier' or 'Dryer': What's the Difference?
  • ‘Formulae' or 'Formulas': What's the Difference?
  • 'Courage' vs 'Bravery': What's the Difference?
  • 'Lead' or 'Led': What Is the Past Tense of 'Lead'?
  • 'Yeah' vs 'Yea' vs 'Yay': Which is Correct?

We encourage you to share this article on Twitter and Facebook . Just click those two links - you'll see why.

It's important to share the news to spread the truth. Most people won't.

Add new comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Post Comment

make up speech meaning

  • Daily Crossword
  • Word Puzzle
  • Word Finder
  • Word of the Day
  • Synonym of the Day
  • Word of the Year
  • Language stories
  • All featured
  • Gender and sexuality
  • All pop culture
  • Writing hub
  • Grammar essentials
  • Commonly confused
  • All writing tips
  • Pop culture
  • Writing tips

Advertisement

Losing her speech made her feel isolated from humanity.

Synonyms: communication , conversation , parley , parlance

He expresses himself better in speech than in writing.

We waited for some speech that would indicate her true feelings.

Synonyms: talk , mention , comment , asseveration , assertion , observation

a fiery speech.

Synonyms: discourse , talk

  • any single utterance of an actor in the course of a play, motion picture, etc.

Synonyms: patois , tongue

Your slovenly speech is holding back your career.

  • a field of study devoted to the theory and practice of oral communication.
  • Archaic. rumor .

to have speech with somebody

speech therapy

  • that which is spoken; utterance
  • a talk or address delivered to an audience
  • a person's characteristic manner of speaking
  • a national or regional language or dialect
  • linguistics another word for parole

Discover More

Other words from.

  • self-speech noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of speech 1

Synonym Study

Example sentences.

Kids are interacting with Alexas that can record their voice data and influence their speech and social development.

The attorney general delivered a controversial speech Wednesday.

For example, my company, Teknicks, is working with an online K-12 speech and occupational therapy provider.

Instead, it would give tech companies a powerful incentive to limit Brazilians’ freedom of speech at a time of political unrest.

However, the president did give a speech in Suresnes, France, the next day during a ceremony hosted by the American Battle Monuments Commission.

Those are troubling numbers, for unfettered speech is not incidental to a flourishing society.

There is no such thing as speech so hateful or offensive it somehow “justifies” or “legitimizes” the use of violence.

We need to recover and grow the idea that the proper answer to bad speech is more and better speech.

Tend to your own garden, to quote the great sage of free speech, Voltaire, and invite people to follow your example.

The simple, awful truth is that free speech has never been particularly popular in America.

Alessandro turned a grateful look on Ramona as he translated this speech, so in unison with Indian modes of thought and feeling.

And so this is why the clever performer cannot reproduce the effect of a speech of Demosthenes or Daniel Webster.

He said no more in words, but his little blue eyes had an eloquence that left nothing to mere speech.

After pondering over Mr. Blackbird's speech for a few moments he raised his head.

Albinia, I have refrained from speech as long as possible; but this is really too much!

Related Words

More about speech, what is speech .

Speech is the ability to express thoughts and emotions through vocal sounds and gestures. The act of doing this is also known as speech .

Speech is something only humans are capable of doing and this ability has contributed greatly to humanity’s ability to develop civilization. Speech allows humans to communicate much more complex information than animals are able to.

Almost all animals make sounds or noises with the intent to communicate with each other, such as mating calls and yelps of danger. However, animals aren’t actually talking to each other. That is, they aren’t forming sentences or sharing complicated information. Instead, they are making simple noises that trigger another animal’s natural instincts.

While speech does involve making noises, there is a lot more going on than simple grunts and growls. First, humans’ vocal machinery, such as our lungs, throat, vocal chords, and tongue, allows for a wide range of intricate sounds. Second, the human brain is incredibly complex, allowing humans to process vocal sounds and understand combinations of them as words and oral communication. The human brain is essential for speech . While chimpanzees and other apes have vocal organs similar to humans’, their brains are much less advanced and they are unable to learn speech .

Why is speech important?

The first records of the word speech come from before the year 900. It ultimately comes from the Old English word sprecan , meaning “to speak.” Scientists debate on the exact date that humanity first learned to speak, with estimates ranging from 50,000 to 2 million years ago.

Related to the concept of speech is the idea of language . A language is the collection of symbols, sounds, gestures, and anything else that a group of people use to communicate with each other, such as English, Swahili, and American Sign Language . Speech is actually using those things to orally communicate with someone else.

Did you know … ?

But what about birds that “talk”? Parrots in particular are famous for their ability to say human words and sentences. Birds are incapable of speech . What they are actually doing is learning common sounds that humans make and mimicking them. They don’t actually understand what anything they are repeating actually means.

What are real-life examples of speech ?

Speech is essential to human communication.

Dutch is just enough like German that I can read text on signs and screens, but not enough that I can understand speech. — Clark Smith Cox III (@clarkcox) September 8, 2009
I can make squirrels so excited, I could almost swear they understand human speech! — Neil Oliver (@thecoastguy) July 20, 2020

What other words are related to speech ?

  • communication
  • information

Quiz yourself!

True or False?

Humans are the only animals capable of speech .

  • Literary Terms
  • Figures of Speech
  • Definition & Examples
  • When & How to Use Figures of Speech

I. What are Figures of Speech?

A figure of speech is a word or phrase using figurative language—language that has other meaning than its normal definition. In other words, figures of speeches rely on implied or suggested meaning, rather than a dictionary definition.  We express and develop them through hundreds of different rhetorical techniques, from specific types like metaphors and similes , to more general forms like sarcasm and slang.

Figures of speech make up a huge portion of the English language, making it more creative, more expressive, and just more interesting! Many have been around for hundreds of years—some even thousands—and more are added to our language essentially every day. This article will focus on a few key forms of figures of speech, but remember, the types are nearly endless!

III. Types of Figure of Speech

There are countless figures of speech in every language, and they fall into hundreds of categories. Here, though, is a short list of some of the most common types of figure of speech:

A. Metaphor

Many common figures of speech are metaphors. That is, they use words in a manner other than their literal meaning. However, metaphors use figurative language to make comparisons between unrelated things or ideas. The “peak of her career,” for example, is a metaphor, since a career is not a literal mountain with a peak , but the metaphor represents the idea of arriving at the highest point of one’s career.

An idiom is a common phrase with a figurative meaning. Idioms are different from other figures of speech in that their figurative meanings are mostly known within a particular language, culture, or group of people. In fact, the English language alone has about 25,000 idioms. Some examples include “it’s raining cats and dogs” when it is raining hard, or “break a leg” when wishing someone good luck.

This sentence uses an idiom to make it more interesting:

There’s a supermarket and a pharmacy in the mall, so if we go there, we can kill two birds with one stone.

The idiom is a common way of saying that two tasks can be completed in the same amount of time or same place.

A proverb is a short, commonplace saying that is universally understood in today’s language and used to express general truths. “Don’t cry over spilt milk” is a popular example. Most proverbs employ metaphors (e.g. the proverb about milk isn’t  literally  about milk).

This example uses a proverb to emphasize the situation:

I know you think you’re going to sell all of those cookies, but don’t count your chickens before they hatch!

Here, “don’t count your chickens before they hatch” means that you shouldn’t act like something has happened before it actually does.

A simile is a very common figure of speech that uses the words “like” and “as” to compare two things that are not related by definition. For example, “he is as tall as a mountain,” doesn’t mean he was actually 1,000 feet tall, it just means he was really tall.

This example uses a simile for comparison:

The internet is like a window to the world —you can learn about everything online!

The common phrase “window to the world” refers to a hypothetical window that lets you see the whole world from it. So, saying the internet is like a window to the world implies that it lets you see anything and everything.

E. Oxymoron

An oxymoron is when you use two words together that have contradictory meanings. Some common examples include s mall crowd, definitely possible, old news, little giant , and so on.

A metonym is a word or phrase that is used to represent something related to bigger meaning. For example, fleets are sometimes described as being “thirty sails strong,” meaning thirty (curiously, this metonym survives in some places, even when the ships in question are not sail-powered!) Similarly, the crew on board those ships may be described as “hands” rather than people.

Irony is when a word or phrase’s literal meaning is the opposite of its figurative meaning. Many times (but not always), irony is expressed with sarcasm (see Related Terms). For example, maybe you eat a really bad cookie, and then say “Wow, that was the best cookie I ever had”—of course, what you really mean is that it’s the worst cookie you ever had, but being ironic actually emphasizes just how bad it was!

IV. The Importance of Figures of Speech

In general, the purpose of a figure of speech is to lend texture and color to your writing. (This is itself a figure of speech, since figures of speech don’t actually change the colors or textures on the page!) For instance, metaphors allow you to add key details that make the writing more lively and relatable. Slang and verbal irony, on the other hand, make the writing seem much more informal and youthful (although they can have the opposite effect when misused!) Finally, other figures of speech, like idioms and proverbs, allows a writer to draw on a rich cultural tradition and express complex ideas in a short space.

V. Examples of Figures of Speech in Literature

“All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players. They have their exits and their entrances, and one man in his time plays many parts.” (William Shakespeare, As You Like It)

This is one of the most famous metaphors ever crafted in the English language. Shakespeare uses his extended metaphor to persuade the audience of the similarities between the stage and real life. But rather than making his play seem more like life, he suggests that life is more like a play. His metaphor calls attention to the performative, creative, and fictional aspects of human life.

“Our words are b ut crumbs that fall down from the feast o f the mind.” (Khalil Gibran, Sand & Foam )

Gibran’s timeless metaphor succeeds for a number of reasons. For one thing, it is not a cliché – had Gibran said “words are just the tip of the iceberg ,” he would have been making roughly the same point, but in a much more clichéd way. But the feast of the mind is a highly original metaphor. In addition, it’s a successful double metaphor. The crumbs and the feast are two parts of the same image, but they work together rather than being “mixed” (see How to Use Figures of Speech ).

“If you chase two rabbits, you will lose them both.” (Russian Proverb)

Like many proverbs, this one draws on a simple metaphor of chasing rabbits. The rabbits can stand in for all sorts of objectives, from jobs to relationships, but the coded message is quite clear – focus your energy on a single objective, or you will likely fail. This literal statement, though, is quite dry and not terribly memorable, which shows the power of figures of speech.

VI. Examples of Figures of Speech in Pop Culture

The chorus to Sean Kingston’s Fire Burning contains a couple of figures of speech. First of all, there’s the word “shorty” used as a slang term (see Related Terms ) for a young woman. She may or may not be literally short, but the figure of speech applies either way (though it could easily be taken as belittling and derogatory). Second, Kingston sings the metaphor: “she’s fire, burning on the dance floor.” Hopefully this is a figure of speech and not a literal statement; otherwise, Kingston and everyone else in the club are in mortal danger!

“Oh, thanks! This is much better!” (Townspeople, South Park )

This is an example of irony. In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, South Park satirized the government’s response to the disaster by writing about a similar disaster in South Park. In a bumbling effort to rescue people from the floods, the authorities accidentally spill oil on the flood waters and set it on fire, making the situation far more dangerous. In response, they ironically “thank” the people responsible—their meaning is obviously the opposite of their words!

Years of talks between Washington and Havana resulted in Obama’s historic visit to Cuba on March 21st. (Patreon 2016)

This is a common form of metonym in foreign policy and news media. The capital city of a country is used as a metonym for the national government. The talks, of course, are not literally between these two cities, but between the leaders and government officials of the two countries (US and Cuba).

VII. Related Terms

Literal and figurative language.

Language is generally divided into two categories: literal, and figurative. Literal language relies on the real definition of words and phrases, or their literal meanings. Figurative language, on the other hand, relies on implied meanings, which can be understood differently depending on the location or who is using it. For example, “the sky is blue” relies on the literal definition of the word “blue,” while “I am feeling blue” relies on the figurative definition. All figures of speech rely on the use of figurative language for their meaning.

Sarcasm is mocking or bitter language that we use to express different meaning than what we say; often the exact opposite. When your intended meaning is the opposite of the literal meaning, that’s irony (another type of figure of speech), which includes common phrases like “Oh, great…” when you really mean something is bad.

Slang is language that uses atypical words and phrases to express specific meanings. It varies greatly by region, demographic, and language—for example, you would find different slang in the U.S. and in the U.K. even though they are both English speaking countries. Likewise, teenagers and the elderly will use different slang terms, as would Spanish and English. Many slang terms are figures of speech. For example, “bro” could be used to describe a friend rather than an actual brother; this would be using the word as a figure of speech.

List of Terms

  • Alliteration
  • Amplification
  • Anachronism
  • Anthropomorphism
  • Antonomasia
  • APA Citation
  • Aposiopesis
  • Autobiography
  • Bildungsroman
  • Characterization
  • Circumlocution
  • Cliffhanger
  • Comic Relief
  • Connotation
  • Deus ex machina
  • Deuteragonist
  • Doppelganger
  • Double Entendre
  • Dramatic irony
  • Equivocation
  • Extended Metaphor
  • Flash-forward
  • Foreshadowing
  • Intertextuality
  • Juxtaposition
  • Literary Device
  • Malapropism
  • Onomatopoeia
  • Parallelism
  • Pathetic Fallacy
  • Personification
  • Point of View
  • Polysyndeton
  • Protagonist
  • Red Herring
  • Rhetorical Device
  • Rhetorical Question
  • Science Fiction
  • Self-Fulfilling Prophecy
  • Synesthesia
  • Turning Point
  • Understatement
  • Urban Legend
  • Verisimilitude
  • Essay Guide
  • Cite This Website

Persuasive Speeches — Types, Topics, and Examples

Daniel Bal

What is a persuasive speech?

In a persuasive speech, the speaker aims to convince the audience to accept a particular perspective on a person, place, object, idea, etc. The speaker strives to cause the audience to accept the point of view presented in the speech.

The success of a persuasive speech often relies on the speaker’s use of ethos, pathos, and logos.

Success of a persuasive speech

Ethos is the speaker’s credibility. Audiences are more likely to accept an argument if they find the speaker trustworthy. To establish credibility during a persuasive speech, speakers can do the following:

Use familiar language.

Select examples that connect to the specific audience.

Utilize credible and well-known sources.

Logically structure the speech in an audience-friendly way.

Use appropriate eye contact, volume, pacing, and inflection.

Pathos appeals to the audience’s emotions. Speakers who create an emotional bond with their audience are typically more convincing. Tapping into the audience’s emotions can be accomplished through the following:

Select evidence that can elicit an emotional response.

Use emotionally-charged words. (The city has a problem … vs. The city has a disease …)

Incorporate analogies and metaphors that connect to a specific emotion to draw a parallel between the reference and topic.

Utilize vivid imagery and sensory words, allowing the audience to visualize the information.

Employ an appropriate tone, inflection, and pace to reflect the emotion.

Logos appeals to the audience’s logic by offering supporting evidence. Speakers can improve their logical appeal in the following ways:

Use comprehensive evidence the audience can understand.

Confirm the evidence logically supports the argument’s claims and stems from credible sources.

Ensure that evidence is specific and avoid any vague or questionable information.

Types of persuasive speeches

The three main types of persuasive speeches are factual, value, and policy.

Types of persuasive speeches

A factual persuasive speech focuses solely on factual information to prove the existence or absence of something through substantial proof. This is the only type of persuasive speech that exclusively uses objective information rather than subjective. As such, the argument does not rely on the speaker’s interpretation of the information. Essentially, a factual persuasive speech includes historical controversy, a question of current existence, or a prediction:

Historical controversy concerns whether an event happened or whether an object actually existed.

Questions of current existence involve the knowledge that something is currently happening.

Predictions incorporate the analysis of patterns to convince the audience that an event will happen again.

A value persuasive speech concerns the morality of a certain topic. Speakers incorporate facts within these speeches; however, the speaker’s interpretation of those facts creates the argument. These speeches are highly subjective, so the argument cannot be proven to be absolutely true or false.

A policy persuasive speech centers around the speaker’s support or rejection of a public policy, rule, or law. Much like a value speech, speakers provide evidence supporting their viewpoint; however, they provide subjective conclusions based on the facts they provide.

How to write a persuasive speech

Incorporate the following steps when writing a persuasive speech:

Step 1 – Identify the type of persuasive speech (factual, value, or policy) that will help accomplish the goal of the presentation.

Step 2 – Select a good persuasive speech topic to accomplish the goal and choose a position .

How to write a persuasive speech

Step 3 – Locate credible and reliable sources and identify evidence in support of the topic/position. Revisit Step 2 if there is a lack of relevant resources.

Step 4 – Identify the audience and understand their baseline attitude about the topic.

Step 5 – When constructing an introduction , keep the following questions in mind:

What’s the topic of the speech?

What’s the occasion?

Who’s the audience?

What’s the purpose of the speech?

Step 6 – Utilize the evidence within the previously identified sources to construct the body of the speech. Keeping the audience in mind, determine which pieces of evidence can best help develop the argument. Discuss each point in detail, allowing the audience to understand how the facts support the perspective.

Step 7 – Addressing counterarguments can help speakers build their credibility, as it highlights their breadth of knowledge.

Step 8 – Conclude the speech with an overview of the central purpose and how the main ideas identified in the body support the overall argument.

How to write a persuasive speech

Persuasive speech outline

One of the best ways to prepare a great persuasive speech is by using an outline. When structuring an outline, include an introduction, body, and conclusion:

Introduction

Attention Grabbers

Ask a question that allows the audience to respond in a non-verbal way; ask a rhetorical question that makes the audience think of the topic without requiring a response.

Incorporate a well-known quote that introduces the topic. Using the words of a celebrated individual gives credibility and authority to the information in the speech.

Offer a startling statement or information about the topic, typically done using data or statistics.

Provide a brief anecdote or story that relates to the topic.

Starting a speech with a humorous statement often makes the audience more comfortable with the speaker.

Provide information on how the selected topic may impact the audience .

Include any background information pertinent to the topic that the audience needs to know to understand the speech in its entirety.

Give the thesis statement in connection to the main topic and identify the main ideas that will help accomplish the central purpose.

Identify evidence

Summarize its meaning

Explain how it helps prove the support/main claim

Evidence 3 (Continue as needed)

Support 3 (Continue as needed)

Restate thesis

Review main supports

Concluding statement

Give the audience a call to action to do something specific.

Identify the overall importan ce of the topic and position.

Persuasive speech topics

The following table identifies some common or interesting persuasive speech topics for high school and college students:

Persuasive speech examples

The following list identifies some of history’s most famous persuasive speeches:

John F. Kennedy’s Inaugural Address: “Ask Not What Your Country Can Do for You”

Lyndon B. Johnson: “We Shall Overcome”

Marc Antony: “Friends, Romans, Countrymen…” in William Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar

Ronald Reagan: “Tear Down this Wall”

Sojourner Truth: “Ain’t I a Woman?”

Example sentences make a speech

Definition of 'speech' speech.

IPA Pronunciation Guide

Definition of 'make' make

A2

Browse alphabetically make a speech

  • make a show of
  • make a song and dance about something
  • make a spectacle of oneself
  • make a speech
  • make a splash
  • make a stab at
  • make a stand
  • All ENGLISH words that begin with 'M'

Quick word challenge

Quiz Review

Score: 0 / 5

Tile

Wordle Helper

Tile

Scrabble Tools

Examples

What Is a Speech?

Speech generator.

make up speech meaning

Most people find it difficult to write a speech for themselves. This is because sometimes, whatever is written on print might sound different when said aloud. There’s always the struggle of proper pronunciation and diction, not to mention the fact that delivering a speech can be a a very nerve-racking experience for anyone.

There’s no denying that it’s probably not for everybody. But most of the time, we’re forced to make it anyway. In order for an individual to give an effective speech , one must construct it well and deliver it with confidence.

A speech is a form of verbal or nonverbal communication that is delivered for a given purpose. Good speech communication serves as an important aspect for many professions in terms of promoting proper communication between individuals.

Some speech examples are given during special occasions, such as a wedding speech and a valedictorian speech , while others are made for formal business gatherings.

How to Start a Speech with Power and Confidence

The common misconception about giving a good keynote speech is that it’s a skill that you’re supposedly born with. Obviously, this is not always the case. It’s a skill that you develop overtime through constant practice.

It’s natural to get nervous, everyone does, although it’s not always obvious. This is because it’s all in the mind, if you have a positive mindset then you’re sure to develop the confidence you need. It’s all about believing in yourself, despite all the uncertainties.

Stand straight. Chin up. And look straight at your audience.

This will give you a sense of dominance. Not only that, you would also need to have a certain tone in your voice. When you speak with power, people will want to listen to what you have to say. Whether it’s a motivational speech or a leadership speech , establish your credibility by giving a speech with power and confidence.

Tips for Giving a Killer Speech

  • Picture everyone in their underwear. Metaphorically speaking, picturing your audience in their underwear would mean to strip them away from how you perceive them, which could probably be a group of monsters who are watching your every move.
  • Interact with your audience. There’s nothing more interesting than watching a speaker engage the audience into being a part of the conversation.
  • Observe proper posture. Body language is everything. This will allow you to deliver your speech in word with a high level of confidence.
  • Avoid dead air. People who are nervous tend to forget the words to say. If this happens, skip this point and come back to it when you remember.

Importance of Speech

A  speech examples comes in various forms, all having a specific purpose. The best part about a speech is that it demands to be heard. Whatever a speaker has to say plays a significant purpose for the audience.

It allows the speaker to deliver a message, while the audience listens attentively. Speech in pdf also contributes to human development. It is a continuous learning process that helps develop an individual’s communication skills.

Twitter

Text prompt

  • Instructive
  • Professional

Tips for writing a Speech on the value of teamwork

How to create a Speech for advocating for climate change action

Synonyms of make up

  • as in to comprise
  • as in to devise
  • as in to build
  • as in paint
  • as in design
  • More from M-W
  • To save this word, you'll need to log in. Log In

Thesaurus Definition of make up

 (Entry 1 of 2)

Synonyms & Similar Words

  • flesh (out)
  • incorporate
  • materialize
  • substantiate
  • come up with
  • manufacture
  • extemporize

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

  • reduplicate
  • put together
  • reconstruct
  • prefabricate
  • jerry - build
  • disassemble

Thesaurus Definition of makeup  (Entry 2 of 2)

  • greasepaint
  • vanishing cream
  • composition
  • arrangement
  • configuration
  • constellation

Thesaurus Entries Near make up

make up (for)

Cite this Entry

“Make up.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/make%20up. Accessed 26 May. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on make up

Nglish: Translation of make up for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of make up for Arabic Speakers

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Play Quordle: Guess all four words in a limited number of tries.  Each of your guesses must be a real 5-letter word.

Can you solve 4 words at once?

Word of the day.

See Definitions and Examples »

Get Word of the Day daily email!

Popular in Grammar & Usage

More commonly misspelled words, your vs. you're: how to use them correctly, every letter is silent, sometimes: a-z list of examples, more commonly mispronounced words, how to use em dashes (—), en dashes (–) , and hyphens (-), popular in wordplay, the words of the week - may 24, flower etymologies for your spring garden, birds say the darndest things, a great big list of bread words, 10 scrabble words without any vowels, games & quizzes.

Play Blossom: Solve today's spelling word game by finding as many words as you can using just 7 letters. Longer words score more points.

Trump booed and jeered at Libertarian National Convention

WASHINGTON — Insults were hurled at former President Donald Trump when he took to the stage Saturday night to address the Libertarian National Convention .

The crowd’s hostility to the former president was especially pronounced when Trump directly solicited their votes. Each time Trump asked attendees at the Washington Hilton for their votes or the party’s nomination, he was met with loud boos.

“I’m asking for the Libertarian Party’s endorsement, or at least lots of your votes, lots and lots of Libertarian votes,” Trump said as the audience booed in response.

At times, Trump turned on the crowd, criticizing libertarians’ turnout in previous elections.

“You can keep going the way you have for the last long decades and get your 3% and meet again, get another 3%,” Trump said following jeers from the crowd.

The 2020 Libertarian Party nominee, Jo Jorgensen, won just over 1% of the votes in several swing states including Wisconsin, Michigan, Arizona, Pennsylvania and Georgia. But in a tight race , these voters could have the power to swing the election between major-party nominees.

The audience yelled at Trump throughout his speech as well, a stark contrast to his typical crowds filled with adoring fans decked out in MAGA gear. At one point during Saturday’s speech, punches were thrown in the audience.

One member of the crowd shouted, “Lock him up!” and another yelled, “Donald Trump is a threat to democracy!” Moments later, someone yelled at Trump, “You had your shot!”

Others yelled at Trump, “F--- you” and “You already had four years, you a--hole.”

Twice, people chanting “We want Trump” were drowned out by boos and chants of “End the Fed.”

After Trump’s Saturday speech, a Libertarian candidate who took the stage called the former president a war criminal, citing his use of drone strikes and actions in Syria.

Libertarian delegates jeer Donald Trump as he speaks

On Friday night, the libertarian crowd was also hostile to mentions of Trump, and the audience booed when Vivek Ramaswamy brought up the former president. Separately, the crowd cheered one Libertarian Party member’s suggestion that “we go tell Donald Trump to go f--- himself.”

Ahead of Saturday’s speech, many members of the audience had already made up their minds about Trump. Libertarian Caryn Ann Harlos balked at the prospect of being swayed by Trump’s remarks.

“I would rather eat my own foot out of a bear trap,” Harlos said. “I only vote Libertarian.”

The Trump campaign argued it was important for the former president to venture into less-than-friendly territory to appeal to “nontraditional Republican votes.”

“What he’s really trying to do is to show that he can be a president for all Americans,” a Trump campaign official said ahead of the former president’s remarks. “If you want to compete for nontraditional Republican votes, then you got to go where they are. You can’t expect them to just show up to you.”

Trump himself referenced the unexpected decision, saying, “A lot of people ask why I came to speak at this Libertarian convention, and, you know, it’s an interesting question, isn’t it? But we’re going to have — but we’re going to have a lot of fun.”

But there were moments when Trump received cheers, like when he touted his record of starting no news wars and his administration’s withdrawal from the World Health Organization , which Biden later rejoined. Trump was also cheered when he called for pardoning Jan. 6 defendants .

One of the loudest cheers from the audience came when Trump announced his intention to commute the life sentence of “Silk Road” website operator Ross Ulbricht.

“If you vote for me, on Day One I will commute the sentence of Ross Ulbricht,” he said.

“We’re going to get him home,” he added later.

Donald Trump.

Ulbricht was sentenced to life in federal prison in 2015 for creating and operating a hidden website known as “Silk Road” that people used to buy and sell drugs, among other illegal goods and services.

Many libertarians have called for Ulbricht’s release. At the convention on Saturday, the crowd was filled with “Free Ross” signs and took up chants in support of Ulbricht.

Preet Bharara, who was U.S. attorney for Manhattan when Ulbricht was sentenced in 2015, said in a press release at the time that Ulbricht’s actions contributed to at least six deaths. Bharara a lso ca lled Ulbricht “a drug dealer and criminal profiteer.”

“While in operation, Silk Road was used by thousands of drug dealers and other unlawful vendors to distribute hundreds of kilograms of illegal drugs and other unlawful goods and services to more than 100,000 buyers, and to launder hundreds of millions of dollars deriving from these unlawful transactions,” Immigration and Customs Enforcement said a 2015 press release announcing Ulbricht’s sentencing.

However, Trump’s previous comments about drug dealers are in conflict with his Saturday vow to commute Ulbricht’s sentence.

The former president has said that the death penalty should be instituted for certain drug dealers, depending on the severity of the crime.

And given that history, libertarians seemed to view the vow to commute Ulbricht’s sentence as calculated.

“Do you think Donald Trump even knew Ross Ulbricht’s name before he decided to come here and pander to us?” Libertarian politician Chase Oliver asked the crowd following Trump’s remarks.

Abigail Brooks reported from the Washington Hilton. Megan Lebowitz reported from Washington, D.C.

Abigail Brooks is a producer for NBC News.

make up speech meaning

Megan Lebowitz is a politics reporter for NBC News.

  • Search Please fill out this field.
  • Manage Your Subscription
  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • Newsletters
  • Sweepstakes
  • Entertainment

Breaking Down Harrison Butker's Speech: Read the Chiefs Player's Most Controversial Comments

Fans are calling for Harrison Butker to be removed from the Chiefs' roster for the upcoming NFL season after his 20-minute commencement speech at Benedictine College

make up speech meaning

Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker 's commencement speech at Benedictine College, a Catholic school, continues to cause outrage.

The NFL player's 20-minute address included attacks on working women, the LBGTQ+ community and families who utilize surrogacy and in vitro fertilization (IVF).

Butker and the Chiefs did not immediately return PEOPLE's requests for comment. In a statement, the NFL’s Chief Diversity Officer Jonathan Beane says, "Harrison Butker gave a speech in his personal capacity. His views are not those of the NFL as an organization. The NFL is steadfast in our commitment to inclusion, which only makes our league stronger.”

Former Kansas City commissioner Justice Horn went further, slamming Butker in a post on X (formerly known as Twitter). "Harrison Butker doesn’t represent Kansas City nor has he ever," he wrote . "Kansas City has always been a place that welcomes, affirms, and embraces our LGBTQ+ community members."

Rapper Flavor Flav chimed in, "Sounds like some players 'need to stay in their lanes' and shouldn’t be giving commencement speeches."

Cooper Neill/Getty

Writer Cyd Zeigler wrote , "Pretty awful to hear an NFL player so proudly tell women to 'stay in their lane,' serve their man and make babies. Not to mention comparing Pride month to a 'deadly sin' and lobbing bombs at the trans community. Not a fan."

Amid the backlash, below is a breakdown of Butker's most controversial comments from the speech.

On Taylor Swift's Lyric

A portion of the outrage against Butker came from supporters of Taylor Swift after he shared one of her lyrics, which fans noticed he misinterpreted.

Butker quoted a lyric from Swift's 2022 song "Bejeweled," and referred to her as his teammate, Travis Kelce 's girlfriend.

"As my teammate's girlfriend would say, familiarity breeds contempt," Butker said when discussing the values of the Catholic Church.

What seemed to have been lost on Butker, however, is that the song's message is about Swift embracing her independence away from a former boyfriend.

On the Covid-19 Pandemic and President Joe Biden

At the start of his speech, Butker addressed how the class of 2024 was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic at the start of their college careers. The subject quickly transitioned into attacks on President Joe Biden and topics such as abortion, IVF, surrogacy and euthanasia.

"I'm sure your high school graduation was not what you had imagined and most likely neither was your first couple years of college. By making it to this moment through all the adversity thrown your way from COVID, I hope you learned the important lesson that suffering in this life is only temporary," he said. "As a group, you witnessed firsthand how bad leaders who don't stay in their lane can have a negative impact on society."

Butker went on: "Bad policies and poor leadership have negatively impacted major life issues. Things like abortion, IVF, surrogacy, euthanasia, as well as a growing support for degenerate cultural values in media, all stem from the pervasiveness of disorder. Our own nation is led by a man who publicly and proudly proclaims his Catholic faith, but at the same time is delusional enough to make the sign of the cross."

The Chiefs kicker continued his verbal attack on Biden, saying, "During a pro-abortion rally, he has been so vocal in his support for the murder of innocent babies that I'm sure to many people it appears that you can be both Catholic and pro-choice."

"This is an important reminder that being Catholic alone doesn't cut it. These are the sorts of things we're told in polite society to not bring up. The difficult and unpleasant things. But if we are going to be men and women for this time in history, we need to stop pretending that the 'Church of Nice' is a winning proposition. We must always speak and act in charity, but never mistake charity for cowardice."

He continued: "As members of the church founded by Jesus Christ, it is our duty and ultimately privilege to be authentically and unapologetically Catholic."

Carmen Mandato/Getty 

On LGBTQ+ Pride

Butker then turned the focus of his speech to the Catholic values at Benedictine College. However, his sentiments attacked the LGBTQ+ and trans communities.

Butker said, "Benedictine has gone from just another liberal arts school with nothing to set it apart to a thriving beacon of light ... I'm certain the reporters at the AP could not have imagined that their attempt to rebuke and embarrass places and people like those here at Benedictine wouldn't be met with anger, but instead met with excitement and pride, not the deadly sin sort of pride that has an entire month dedicated to it, but the true God-centered pride that is cooperating with the Holy Ghost to glorify him."

On IVF and Surrogacy

Butker later attacked families who utilize IVF and surrogacy to have children, saying, "It is imperative that this class, this generation, in this time in our society must stop pretending that the things we see around us are normal."

"Heterodox ideas abound, even within Catholic circles. Let's be honest, there is nothing good about playing God with having children, whether that be your ideal number or the perfect time to conceive. No matter how you spin it, there is nothing natural about Catholic birth control. It is only in the past few years that I have grown encouraged to speak more boldly and directly because as I mentioned earlier, I have leaned into my vocation as a husband and father and as a man."

Never miss a story — sign up for  PEOPLE's free daily newsletter  to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

On Working Women

In a direct address to the female graduates at Benedictine, Butker said, "For the ladies present today, congratulations on an amazing accomplishment. I want to speak directly to you briefly because I think it is you, the women, who have had the most diabolical lies told to you."

"Some of you may go on to lead successful careers in the world, but I would venture to guess that the majority of you are most excited about your marriage and the children you will bring into this world."

Of his spouse, Butker said, "I can tell you that my beautiful wife, Isabelle, would be the first to say that her life truly started when she began living her vocation as a wife and as a mother. I'm on this stage today and able to be the man I am because I have a wife who leans into her vocation. I'm beyond blessed with the many talents God has given me, but it cannot be overstated that all of my success is made possible because a girl I met in band class back in middle school, who would convert to the faith, become my wife and embrace one of the most important titles of all: homemaker."

Jamie Squire/Getty

He continued, "I say all of this to you because I have seen firsthand how much happier someone can be when they disregard the outside noise and move closer and closer to God's will in their life. Isabelle's dream of having a career might not have come true, but if you asked her today if she has any regrets on her decision, she would laugh out loud without hesitation and say, heck no."

Several users on social media have pointed out , however, that Butker's mother, Elizabeth Butker, is a successful physicist at Emory University's Department of Radiation Oncology.

On Masculinity

Moving his focus to the male graduates in the room, Butker said, "To the gentlemen here today, part of what plagues our society is this lie that has been told to you that men are not necessary in the home or in our communities. As men, we set the tone of the culture. And when that is absent, disorder, dysfunction and chaos set in ..."

"Other countries do not have nearly the same absentee father rates as we find here in the U.S., and a correlation could be made in their drastically lower violence rates as well. Be unapologetic in your masculinity. Fight against the cultural emasculation of men. Do hard things. Never settle for what is easy. You might have a talent that you don't necessarily enjoy, but if it glorifies God, maybe you should lean into that over something that you might think suits you better."

Concluding his speech, Butker said, "I know that my message today had a little less fluff than is expected for these speeches, but I believe that this audience and this venue is the best place to speak openly and honestly about who we are and where we all want to go, which is heaven. I thank God for Benedictine College and for the example it provides to the world."

"Make no mistake, you are entering into mission territory in a post God world, but you are made for this and with God by your side and a constant striving for virtue within your vocation, you too can be a saint. Christ is king to the heights."

Related Articles

  • Dictionaries home
  • American English
  • Collocations
  • German-English
  • Grammar home
  • Practical English Usage
  • Learn & Practise Grammar (Beta)
  • Word Lists home
  • My Word Lists
  • Recent additions
  • Resources home
  • Text Checker

Definition of speech noun from the Oxford Advanced American Dictionary

Definitions on the go

Look up any word in the dictionary offline, anytime, anywhere with the Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary app.

make up speech meaning

Harrison Butker speaks out publicly for first time since commencement speech controversy

H arrison Butker is opening up publicly for the first time about the controversial commencement speech he gave at Benedictine College, a small Catholic liberal college in Kansas.

During his speech, the Kansas City Chiefs kicker, who is Catholic himself, spoke out against birth control and IVF while also encouraging young women in the audience to be homemakers, among other topics .

Following the online backlash from his remarks, which left some graduates at the school outraged , Butker responded to the controversy on Friday evening at a Courage Under Fire gala in Nashville, Tennessee.

“The theme for tonight’s gala, ‘Courage Under Fire,’ was decided many months ago, but it now seems providential that this would be the theme after what we have all witnessed these past two weeks," he said. "If it wasn’t clear that the timeless Catholic values are hated by many, it is now.”

“Over the past few days, my beliefs, or what people think I believe, have been the focus of countless discussions around the globe,” he continued. “...The more I’ve talked about what I value most, which is my Catholic faith, the more polarizing I have become. It’s a decision I’ve consciously made, and one I do not regret at all.”

In his controversial speech, Butker asserted that his wife’s life “really started when she began living her vocation as a wife and as a mother.”

Aside from online outrage, his comments also drew criticism from a group of nuns associated with Benedictine College, who celebrated the college’s “educated” women in a statement.

The speech also prompted the NFL, which has recently welcomed throngs of new young women fans thanks to Taylor Swift , to issue a statement asserting that Butker’s views “are not those of the NFL as an organization.”

Though many have spoken out against his speech, some have come forward to support Butker for expressing his opinions, including Tavia Hunt , wife of the Chief's Chairman and CEO Clark Hunt, who wrote on Instagram that "affirming motherhood" and "praising your wife" were not "bigoted" views.

Here's everything to know about Harrison Butker and his controversial speech.

Who is Harrison Butker?

Harrison Butker is a kicker for the Kansas City Chiefs.

The 28-year-old athlete was drafted in 2017 by the Carolina Panthers but was signed by the Chiefs in September of the same year.

As a player for the Chiefs, Butker has won three Super Bowls and was singled out for scoring a 27-yard field goal that helped the team clinch a victory in the 2023 Super Bowl against the Philadelphia Eagles.

Butker, who opened up about his Catholic faith to the EWTN Global Catholic Network , married his high school sweetheart, Isabelle Butker, in 2018. The couple are parents.

What is Benedictine College?

Benedictine College is a small Catholic college in Atchison, Kansas.

What did Harrison Butker say in his speech, exactly?

The NFL star has come under fire since giving a May 11 commencement speech at the school during which he shared his views on a range of topics including gender roles, birth control and sexuality.

Butker called being a homemaker one of the “most important” roles for a woman and stated that his own wife's life “really started when she began living her vocation as a wife and as a mother.”

“I’ve seen firsthand how much happier someone can be when they disregard the outside noise and move closer and closer to God’s will for life," he told the crowd. "Isabelle’s dream of having a career might not have come true, but if you ask her today if she has any regrets on her decision, she would laugh out loud without hesitation and say no.”

He urged men in the audience to “be unapologetic in your masculinity” and “to fight against the cultural emasculation of men.”

Butker criticized birth control and IVF as examples of "disorder" and likened Pride Month, a month-long annual celebration honoring the LGBTQ community, to a “deadly sin sort of pride,” rather than “true God-centered pride.”

He also denounced priests who "prioritize hobbies or even photos with their dogs and matching outfits for the parish directory" over leadership.

What has the public response been?

The NFL player’s speech inspired prolonged applause and a standing ovation before the crowd May 11. But the online response has been fiery.

Not everyone present on graduation day was thrilled, either, with one young student telling NBC News her "jaw dropped" when she heard the athlete's comments.

Mary Aaker, a 2019 Benedictine graduate, said Butker’s remarks were “disheartening.” 

“All of that was boiled down to, ‘I bet you’re most excited to go out and start a family,’” she said on  on TODAY.

The backlash also heated up the internet, prompting some women to troll the Chiefs' social media pages.

When the team posted a reminder about the release of its upcoming schedule on Instagram over the weekend, some women responded by mocking Butker's remarks.

"I wish I could watch but my husband says I have to stay in the kitchen," wrote one.

"I’m sorry could someone read this to me. I’m a woman and I only learned birthing and cooking," wrote another.

The sisters of Mount St. Scholastica, a group of nuns associated with Benedictine College, shared a statement about Butker's speech , saying it "fostered division."

"One of our concerns was the assertion that being a homemaker is the highest calling for a woman,” the statement reads.

The sisters described how they have spent more than 160 years devoting their lives to God while educating women.

“These women have made a tremendous difference in the world in their roles as wives and mothers and through their God-given gifts in leadership, scholarship, and their careers,” their statement read.

Later in the statement, the nuns said they “reject a narrow definition of what it means to be Catholic” and want to be known as “an inclusive, welcoming community.”

The NFL also distanced itself from the views expressed in Butker's speech. Jonathan Beane, the league's senior vice president and chief diversity and inclusion officer, told TODAY.com in a statement that the athlete's views "are not those of the NFL as an organization."

"The NFL is steadfast in our commitment to inclusion, which only makes our league stronger," the statement added.

Pearl Jam frontman Eddie Vedder criticized Butker's speech at a concert in Las Vegas, saying he couldn't follow the "logic" of his words.

“There should be pride in homemaking if you’re a man or a woman … it’s one of the hardest jobs and you should definitely take pride in it, but you’re going to benefit by giving up your dreams?

He concluded, “There’s nothing more masculine than a strong man supporting a strong woman.”

TODAY’s Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush Hager weighed in, too.

“Well, I’m where I am today because I have a husband who leans into  his  vocation, which is being an equal partner. And I tell him that all the time,” said Jenna.

“Don’t speak for us,” Hoda said. “Stop speaking for women out there.”

Others, however, have publicly applauded Butker's speech. Tavia Hunt , wife of the Chief’s Chairman and CEO Clark Hunt, wrote on Instagram that “affirming motherhood” and “praising your wife” were not “bigoted” views.

Former "Everybody Loves Raymond" star Patricia Heaton also shared her support for Butker. "I don’t know why everybody’s knickers are in a twist,” Heaton said May 18  Instagram vide o. “He gave a commencement speech. The audience applauded twice and gave him a standing ovation at the end, so clearly they enjoyed what he was saying. The guy is espousing his own opinions and Catholic doctrine, so what?”

“It’s his opinion,” she added. “He can have one. He’s allowed. He’s not a monster for stating what he believes.”

Others online  pointed out that Butker’s mother is a medical physicist, per her   LinkedIn , complicated his sentiments about the “diabolical lies” women have been told about working.

“What does your mom think about your little speech Harrison?”  posted Vicki Chan , a medical doctor and TikTok influencer.

Has Harrison Butker responded to the speech?

Butker has not responded to the controversy his May 11 speech ignited. However, he seemed to get ahead of it in the speech itself.

Addressing the political nature of his speech, Butker said near the end, “I know that my message today had a little less fluff than is expected for these speeches, but I believe that this audience and this venue is the best place to speak openly and honestly about who we are and where we all want to go, which is Heaven.”

He said he knows he has “gained quite the reputation for speaking (his) mind,” but feels he has “no other choice but to embrace it.” 

This article was originally published on TODAY.com

Harrison Butker (Benedictine College / YouTube)

Cambridge Dictionary

Meaning of make something up in English

Make something up.

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 audio

( PREPARE )

You can also find related words, phrases, and synonyms in the topics:

( COMPLETE )

( REPLACE )

make-up noun [U] ( FOR FACE )

make-up noun [U] ( PARTS )

Make up something | american dictionary, ( do later ), ( provide ), ( become friends ), make up sth | business english.

Examples of make something up

Translations of make something up.

Get a quick, free translation!

{{randomImageQuizHook.quizId}}

Word of the Day

on the road

If a vehicle is on the road, it is working as it should and can be legally used.

Apples and oranges (Talking about differences, Part 2)

Apples and oranges (Talking about differences, Part 2)

make up speech meaning

Learn more with +Plus

To add make something up to a word list please sign up or log in.

Add make something up to one of your lists below, or create a new one.

{{message}}

Something went wrong.

There was a problem sending your report.

Mobile Menu Overlay

The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW Washington, DC 20500

A Proclamation on Prayer for Peace, Memorial Day,   2024

     This Memorial Day, we honor the brave women and men who made the ultimate sacrifice for our Nation’s freedom.  We recommit to keeping our sacred obligation to their survivors, families, and caregivers.  Together, we vow to honor their memories by carrying on their work to forge a more perfect Union.

     Since our Nation’s founding, members of our Armed Forces have been willing to lay down their lives — not for a person or a place but for an idea unlike any other in human history:  the idea of the United States of America.  We are the only Nation in the world founded on the idea that we are all created equal and deserve to be treated equally throughout our entire lives.  Generations of America’s beloved daughters and sons have dared all, risked all, and given all for this idea.  Today, as they lie in eternal peace, we continue to live by the light of liberty they kept burning bright.

     To all those grieving the loss of a loved one who wore the uniform, including our Gold Star Families, and to all those who have a loved one still missing or unaccounted for:  Our country sees you and mourns with you.  I know how painful this day can be — how it can bring you back to the day you lost a piece of your soul.  It is overwhelming.  No words can ease that grief.  But I hope you find a small measure of solace in knowing that we will never forget the price your loved one paid for our freedom — and we will never stop trying to repay the debt of gratitude we owe you and them.

     That is our vow today — and that is our vow always.  May God bless our fallen heroes.  May God bring comfort to their families.  May God protect our troops.

     In honor and recognition of all of our fallen service members, the Congress, by a joint resolution approved May 11, 1950, as amended (36 U.S.C. 116), has requested that the President issue a proclamation calling on the people of the United States to observe each Memorial Day as a day of prayer for permanent peace and designating a period on that day when the people of the United States might unite in prayer and reflection.  The Congress, by Public Law 106-579, has also designated 3:00 p.m. local time on that day as a time for all Americans to observe, in their own way, the National Moment of Remembrance.

     NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim Memorial Day, May 27, 2024, as a day of prayer for permanent peace, and I designate the hour beginning in each locality at 11:00 a.m. of that day as a time when people might unite in prayer and reflection.  I urge the press, radio, television, and all other information media to cooperate in this observance.  I further ask all Americans to observe the National Moment of Remembrance beginning at 3:00 p.m. local time on Memorial Day.

     I request the Governors of the United States and its Commonwealths and Territories, and the appropriate officials of all units of government, to direct that the flag be flown at half-staff until noon on this Memorial Day on all buildings, grounds, and naval vessels throughout the United States and in all areas under its jurisdiction and control.  I encourage families, friends, and neighbors to post tributes to our fallen service members through the Veterans Legacy Memorial at vlm.cem.va.gov so that we may learn more about the lives and contributions of those buried in National, State, and Tribal veteran cemeteries.  I also request the people of the United States to display the flag at half-staff from their homes for the customary forenoon period.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fourth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-four, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-eighth.                                    JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

Stay Connected

We'll be in touch with the latest information on how President Biden and his administration are working for the American people, as well as ways you can get involved and help our country build back better.

Opt in to send and receive text messages from President Biden.

Watch CBS News

Trump, RFK Jr. face hostile reception at Libertarian convention amid efforts to sway voters

By Jacob Rosen , Allison Novelo

May 25, 2024 / 10:32 PM EDT / CBS News

Washington — Former President Donald Trump and independent presidential candidate Robert F Kennedy Jr.'s attempts to appeal to the Libertarian Party fell on deaf ears this weekend, with the third-party crowd interrupting and mocking both at the party's convention in Washington, D.C.

A chaotic scene unfolded as Trump took the stage Saturday, as Libertarians clashed with pro-Trump attendees throughout his speech, resulting in multiple people being removed from the room and the crowd split between jeers, boos and chants directed at Trump.

"You can either nominate us and give us the position, or give us your votes," Trump said to boos as he departed the stage. 

Trump repeatedly snapped back at the crowd and their hostility, telling them at one point to "keep getting your 3% [of the national vote] every four years," adding "maybe you don't want to win." 

Former President Donald Trump

Jo Jorgensen, the Libertarian Party's nominee in 2020, got 1.85 million votes, under 1.2% of the popular vote. And in 2016, Gary Johnson, the party's nominee that cycle, received 4.48 million votes, about 3.3% of the popular vote.

In his pitch to Libertarian voters, Trump called for the commutation of Ross Ulbricht 's life sentence. Ulbricht, the founder of the Silk Road website, was found guilty of multiple felonies tied to  the black market site. Silk Road allowed users to buy and sell products anonymously, including drugs and fake government documents. The Libertarian Party has made freeing Ulbricht a part of its platform.

Former  President Donald Trump

However, during his 2024 reelection campaign announcement two years ago, Trump called on Congress to pass a law mandating the death penalty for drug dealers.

On Friday, Kennedy — who faced a warmer reception than Trump —  tried to win Libertarians over to his camp by promising to pardon government whistleblower Edward Snowden, currently exiled in Russia , and to drop espionage charges against Julian Assange , the WikiLeaks founder battling U.S. attempts to extradite him from Britain — two figures revered by Libertarians. He also criticized Trump several times for his handling of the pandemic, claiming that Trump violated the Constitution by allowing lockdowns and travel restrictions. 

Kennedy's remarks on Snowden and Assange drew cheers. While his audience was comprised of many former Democrats and Republicans, some Libertarians felt he wasn't a true candidate for their party.  

The decision by Libertarian Party leadership to host Trump and Kennedy divided the party and prompted aggressive reactions from some delegates who sought to exclude both candidates from the event. 

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

While neither candidate is vying for the Libertarian nomination, both were hoping to win over some uncommitted Libertarian voters.

Convention organizers also invited President Biden, but he declined to deliver remarks.

Libertarian Party leaders said they chose to invite the candidates as a way for members to speak directly to those who might win the White House in November.

"We are denied a place on the debate stage, so we decided to make our own stage the focal point of the world's eyes," said Brian McWilliams, Libertarian National Party communications director. 

During a business session Friday, several delegates were heard yelling profanities at the Libertarian Party chair, Angela McArdle, in objection to Trump and Kennedy taking the stage at the convention.

Several booed and yelled obscenities at McArdle as she attempted to calm the crowd. Security later escorted one man out of the session. 

Arielle Shack, a Libertarian voter at the convention Friday, told CBS News she was attending Kennedy's speech in protest, which took place at the same time as the rowdy business session.

Shack said she traveled to the convention from New Jersey to represent other New Jersey Libertarian voters who felt Kennedy and Trump should not have been invited because they were not true Libertarians.

"We don't want people that are not Libertarians here. If they don't have our principles, we're not going to vote for them," Shack said. "You're not gonna see Libertarians coming in, voting for a Kennedy, a Kennedy Democrat. He didn't get the Democratic [candidacy], so now he wants to be independent. But I think we can see right through that."

Another Libertarian voter, Richard Edgar from New Jersey, said he felt the invitation of both Trump and Kennedy was a "slap in the face" to Libertarian voters, who were expecting to hear Libertarian candidates make their case.

Michael Reeves — a Libertarian delegate from Daphne, Alabama who said he had been a member of the party for about 25 years — said that Trump and Kennedy's attendance at the convention "speaks well for the influence that we could exert on an election at this point, that they feel like they need to cater to us in any way."

Reeves said he would likely vote for the Libertarian nominee after sitting out in 2020. Reeves said that Kennedy's speech was "not bold enough," and he was "disappointed" by Trump's first term in the White House.

"I thought he had an opportunity to really make some changes in D.C., and he didn't," Reeves said about Trump. "The best we can say is that he didn't start any new wars, and that's a pretty low bar." 

He added that both Democrats and Republicans are moving the country towards a "more collectivist and authoritarian state."

"To me, they represent essentially the same thing, the things that they disagree about are kind of minor compared to the things that they do agree about," Reeves said. "And they make all the wrong calls on the things that they do agree about."

More from CBS News

After Haley said she'd vote for Trump, Biden campaign met with her supporters

Feds seek to bar Trump from making statements that endanger law enforcement

Senate border bill vote fails as Democrats seek to shift blame to GOP

Judge in "hush money" trial rejects Trump request to sanction prosecutors

Harrison Butker says 'I do not regret at all' controversial commencement speech

make up speech meaning

Harrison Butker found himself behind the lectern once again and stood by the much-derided comments he made during a commencement speech at Benedictine College earlier this month.

"Over the past few days, my beliefs – or what people think I believe – have been the focus of countless discussions around the globe," the Kansas City Chiefs kicker said Friday night at the Regina Caeli Academy "Courage Under Fire Gala" in Nashville, Tennessee. "At the outset, many expressed a shocking level of hate. But as the days went on, even those who disagreed with my viewpoints shared their support for my freedom of religion."

Butker caused a stir this month during his speech at Benedictine to rail against Pride Month, the COVID-19 pandemic, transgender people and diminished the role women play in society.

"I think it is you, the women, who have had the most diabolic lies told to you," the three-time Super Bowl champion said on May 11. "Some of you may go on to lead successful careers in the world but I would venture to guess that the majority of you are most excited about your marriage and the children you will bring into this world."

Chiefs teammates Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce said they disagreed with Butker's comments but have known him for a long time and will judge him based on the relationship they have with him. Head coach Andy Reid said "we all respect each other’s opinions," and he added that Butker is expected to join the rest of the team in celebrating their Super Bowl 58 victory at the White House on Friday.

All things Chiefs: Latest Kansas City Chiefs news, schedule, roster, stats, injury updates and more.

Butker said his job as a NFL kicker has made him familiar with the spotlight. Discussing his Catholic faith, however, has made him "more polarizing."

"It’s a decision I’ve consciously made and one I do not regret at all,” Butker said.

Regina Caeli is a Catholic, hybrid homeschool model of education for students ages pre-K through 12th grade.

Butker, 28, is a member of the Regina Caeli's board, he said. The theme of the event, "Courage Under Fire," was chosen months in advance, but Butker said it "feels providential after all we have witnessed these past few weeks."

"My hope is that tonight's theme and RCA's mission will embolden others," Butker said. "That many more will be unapologetic in their Catholic faith and never be afraid to speak out for truth, even when it goes against the loudest voices.

"Being disliked and mischaracterized by some is nothing compared to a lion's den."

Miss Manners: Is “Please” losing its meaning in everyday speech?

Question mark written on paper.

Question mark written on paper. Canva stock image

DEAR MISS MANNERS: We often hear the word “please” spoken in a way that is misapplied. For example, on television game shows, contestants add the word “please” when informing the host which category or letter they want: “E, please,” or “‘Popular quotations’ for $200, please.”

The use of “please” in these instances seems misplaced. If it needs to be used, we think it should be the program host who says something like, “Make a selection, please.”

Those are some public examples, and we are increasingly hearing “please” used in similar ways in other public and private situations. Your thoughts?

GENTLE READER: Having devoted her life to trying to get people to be decent toward one another, let alone polite, Miss Manners is hardly going to condemn a rare public example. Both the host and the contestants should be saying “please.”

Furthermore, she is hard pressed to think of another situation, public or private, where a “please” would not be welcomed. Unless, of course, it is said sarcastically.

(Please send your questions to Miss Manners at her website, www.missmanners.com ; to her email, [email protected] ; or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.)

COPYRIGHT 2023 JUDITH MARTIN

DISTRIBUTED BY ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106; 816-581-7500

Miss Manners

Stories by Miss Manners

  • Miss Manners: How to politely ask guests not to put luggage on bed
  • Miss Manners: The rise of gift registries for children sparks controversy
  • Miss Manners: Who should pay for high school dance expenses?
  • Miss Manners: Feeling unimportant as husband neglects special occasions
  • Miss Manners: Evaluating the impact of a playful gift gesture

If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

IMAGES

  1. How to do Basic Makeup (Speech)

    make up speech meaning

  2. 7 Ways We Use the Phrase, “Make Up” in English Explained in Less Than

    make up speech meaning

  3. Informative speech: How to apply a full face of makeup

    make up speech meaning

  4. make-up

    make up speech meaning

  5. Makeup or Make Up

    make up speech meaning

  6. To Make Up Meaning

    make up speech meaning

VIDEO

  1. Theatre Makeup 101

  2. Should A Makeup Artist Know How To Speak English

  3. Speech Meaning

  4. 10 Easy Makeup Tutorials for Beginners

  5. Motivational speech

  6. Makeup Vocabulary Vol.2

COMMENTS

  1. How To Use "Make Up" In A Sentence: Usage and Examples

    After their argument, they decided to make up and move forward. On the other hand, when "make up" is used as a noun, it refers to cosmetics or the act of applying cosmetics to enhance one's appearance. As a noun, "make up" can be preceded by articles such as "a," "an," or "the.". Consider the following examples: She always ...

  2. Makeup or Make Up

    Makeup is a noun, while make up is a verb phrase. Which one you use depends on which part of speech you need. Now, let's go over a trick to keep track of make up vs. makeup. Since makeup is a compound noun, like the compound nouns takeout and kickoff, the construction of the word is you clue that makeup is a noun.

  3. "Makeup," "Make-up," or "Make Up"?

    As a verb, "make up" is a phrasal verb, i.e., a verb made up of a verb and another word (either a preposition or a particle). In the case of "make up," "make" is the verb and "up" is a preposition. Phrasal verbs are never merged into one word or joined with hyphens. Therefore:

  4. How to Use Makeup, make-up or make up Correctly

    Make up is a verb phrase which means 1.) to compose 2.) to invent 3.) to arrange 4.) to apply cosmetics 5.) to reconcile after a quarrel. Make up is also used as an adjective. Examples. The Columbian singer celebrated her 39th birthday by reminding us all how glowing she is without a drop of makeup on, posting a picture of her "birthday bun ...

  5. 'Makeup' or 'Make Up': What's the Difference Between the Two?

    Uncover the difference between 'Makeup' and 'Make Up'! Dive in to learn usage, meaning, and context in our clear, easy-to-understand guide. ... To further clarify the grammatical distinctions between 'makeup' and 'make up,' let's break down the parts of speech commonly found in a sentence. Nouns often function as the subject or the ...

  6. Makeup Definition & Meaning

    makeup: [noun] the way in which the parts or ingredients of something are put together : composition. physical, mental, and moral constitution.

  7. The Phrasal Verb 'Make Up' Explained

    MEANING 1: To make peace after an argument. Let's start off the meanings of 'make up' on a positive note. For this we are going to need the additional preposition 'with' and the reason for this is that 'to make up with someone' means to reconcile or become friends with them again after an argument or disagreement.

  8. 'Makeup' or 'Make Up': What's the Difference Between the Two?

    So there you have it: the difference between 'makeup' and 'make up.'. I hope this article has helped you feel more confident about using each word. Here's what we've learned, in summary: 'Makeup' is a noun and must be spelled with one word. 'Make up' is a phrasal verb and must be spelled with two separate words.

  9. make up phrasal verb

    3 to invent a story, etc., especially in order to trick or entertain someone He made up some excuse about his daughter being sick. I told the kids a story, making it up as I went along. You made that up! 4 to complete a number or an amount required We need one more person to make up a team.; 5 to replace something that has been lost; to compensate for something Can I leave early this afternoon ...

  10. make up phrasal verb

    Definition of make up phrasal verb in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more. ... Can I leave early this afternoon and make up the time tomorrow? to prepare a medicine by mixing different things together; to prepare a bed for use; to create a temporary ...

  11. speech noun

    Synonyms speech speech lecture address talk sermon These are all words for a talk given to an audience. speech a formal talk given to an audience:. Several people made speeches at the wedding. lecture a talk given to a group of people to tell them about a particular subject, often as part of a university or college course:. a lecture on the Roman army

  12. SPEECH Definition & Meaning

    Speech definition: the faculty or power of speaking; oral communication; ability to express one's thoughts and emotions by speech sounds and gesture. See examples of SPEECH used in a sentence.

  13. SPEECH

    SPEECH definition: 1. the ability to talk, the activity of talking, or a piece of spoken language: 2. the way a…. Learn more.

  14. Figures of Speech: Definition and Examples

    A figure of speech is a word or phrase using figurative language—language that has other meaning than its normal definition. In other words, figures of speeches rely on implied or suggested meaning, rather than a dictionary definition. We express and develop them through hundreds of different rhetorical techniques, from specific types like ...

  15. Make up

    form or compose. create the design for; create or execute in an artistic or highly skilled manner

  16. SPEECH

    SPEECH definition: 1. someone's ability to talk, or an example of someone talking: 2. a formal talk that someone…. Learn more.

  17. Persuasive Speeches

    Step 2 - Select a good persuasive speech topic to accomplish the goal and choose a position. How to write a persuasive speech. Step 3 - Locate credible and reliable sources and identify evidence in support of the topic/position. Revisit Step 2 if there is a lack of relevant resources. Step 4 - Identify the audience and understand their ...

  18. MAKE A SPEECH definition and meaning

    MAKE A SPEECH definition | Meaning, pronunciation, translations and examples

  19. What Is a Speech?

    A speech is a form of verbal or nonverbal communication that is delivered for a given purpose. Good speech communication serves as an important aspect for many professions in terms of promoting proper communication between individuals. Some speech examples are given during special occasions, such as a wedding speech and a valedictorian speech ...

  20. MAKE UP Synonyms: 159 Similar and Opposite Words

    Synonyms for MAKE UP: comprise, compose, constitute, form, flesh (out), fill (out), integrate, supplement; Antonyms of MAKE UP: reproduce, imitate, copy, duplicate ...

  21. Trump booed and jeered at Libertarian National Convention

    Ahead of Saturday's speech, many members of the audience had already made up their minds about Trump. Libertarian Caryn Ann Harlos balked at the prospect of being swayed by Trump's remarks.

  22. Breaking Down Harrison Butker's Speech: Read His Most Controversial

    Writer Cyd Zeigler wrote, "Pretty awful to hear an NFL player so proudly tell women to 'stay in their lane,' serve their man and make babies. Not to mention comparing Pride month to a 'deadly sin ...

  23. SPEECH

    SPEECH meaning: 1. the ability to talk, the activity of talking, or a piece of spoken language: 2. the way a…. Learn more.

  24. speech noun

    5 [countable] a group of lines that an actor speaks in a play in the theater She has the longest speech in the play. see figure of speech; Thesaurus speech. lecture; address; talk; sermon; These are all words for a talk given to an audience. speech a formal talk given to an audience: Several people made speeches at the wedding.

  25. The backlash to Harrison Butker's Benedictine College speech ...

    The speech also prompted the NFL, which has recently welcomed throngs of new young women fans thanks to Butker's teammate Travis Kelce's romance with pop star Taylor Swift, to issue a statement ...

  26. MAKE SOMETHING UP

    MAKE SOMETHING UP definition: 1. to invent something, such as an excuse or a story, often in order to deceive: 2. to prepare or…. Learn more.

  27. A Proclamation on Prayer for Peace, Memorial Day, 2024

    The Congress, by Public Law 106-579, has also designated 3:00 p.m. local time on that day as a time for all Americans to observe, in their own way, the National Moment of Remembrance. NOW ...

  28. Trump, RFK Jr. face hostile reception at Libertarian convention amid

    Trump repeatedly snapped back at the crowd and their hostility, telling them at one point to "keep getting your 3% [of the national vote] every four years," adding "maybe you don't want to win."

  29. Harrison Butker has no regrets over controversial commencement speech

    Harrison Butker says 'I do not regret at all' controversial commencement speech. Harrison Butker found himself behind the lectern once again and stood by the much-derided comments he made during a ...

  30. Miss Manners: Is "Please" losing its meaning in everyday speech

    By. Miss Manners. DEAR MISS MANNERS: We often hear the word "please" spoken in a way that is misapplied. For example, on television game shows, contestants add the word "please" when ...