make it up to sb

/mˌeɪk ɪt ˌʌp tʊ ˌɛsbˈiː/

to make it up to sb

to do something to compensate for a previous mistake, offense, or wrongdoing and to attempt to regain the person's trust or forgiveness

to [make] it up to {sb} definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "make it up to someone" and when to use it?

The origin of the phrase can be traced back to the 1800s. Originally, it was used in a literal sense, meaning to physically reconstruct or rebuild something that had been damaged or destroyed. Over time, the phrase began to take on a more figurative meaning, referring to the act of repairing a relationship or compensating someone for a wrong that had been done to them. The phrase became more popular in the early 1900s and is still commonly used today. It is often used in situations where someone has caused harm or inconvenience to another person and wishes to make amends or offer some form of restitution.

Examples

1. Lisa accidentally spilled coffee on her friend's favorite shirt, so she promises to make it up to him by buying him a new one.

2. Jake missed his friend's birthday party, but he made it up to her by organizing a surprise gathering with their mutual friends the following week.

3. "We'll make it up to you next year."

4. Let me make it up to you.

Nearby words