Make up the difference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Make up the difference" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used when referring to compensating for a shortfall or gap in amounts, such as money or resources. Example: "If the total cost of the project exceeds the budget, we will need to make up the difference from our reserves."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

Someone has to make up the difference.

The New Yorker

Donations must make up the difference.

The New York Times

Productivity gains will make up the difference.

The New York Times

Camby could not make up the difference.

The New York Times - Sports

Subsidies from the federal government make up the difference.

The New York Times

Obviously, America cannot make up the difference on its own.

The New York Times

It has to buy permits to make up the difference.

The Guardian

He doesn't strain to make up the difference, either.

The New York Times - Arts

To refinance, they typically have to make up the difference.

The New York Times

They are expected to make up the difference.

The Guardian

Other taxpayers would make up the difference for the exemptions.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "make up the difference", ensure the context clearly identifies what is lacking and how the difference will be compensated. For instance, specify the source of additional funds or resources.

Common error

Avoid using "make up the difference" without clearly stating what "difference" refers to. Unclear antecedents can confuse readers. For example, instead of saying "We need to make up the difference", specify: "We need to make up the budget difference through additional fundraising".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Make up the difference" functions as a verb phrase. It typically describes the action of compensating for a deficiency or shortfall. Ludwig provides numerous examples showing its versatility across different contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

96%

Formal & Business

2%

Science

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "Make up the difference" is a grammatically correct and very common expression used to describe compensating for a shortfall or gap. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is appropriate for various contexts, particularly in news and media, and carries a neutral register. To ensure clarity, always specify what "difference" refers to. Alternatives like "compensate for the deficit" or "cover the gap" can be used depending on the context. By considering these guidelines, you can confidently and accurately use "Make up the difference" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Cover the gap

Emphasizes filling a void or space, which can be literal or figurative.

Compensate for the deficit

Focuses specifically on financial shortfalls or deficits, implying a need to balance accounts.

Offset the imbalance

Highlights the act of creating equilibrium by counteracting a disparity or disproportion.

Counteract the loss

Focuses on neutralizing or balancing a negative outcome or detriment.

Rectify the deficiency

Implies correcting or amending a lack or inadequacy, often in a formal context.

Ameliorate the shortfall

Suggests improving a deficiency or making it less severe, often in a gradual manner.

Neutralize the effect

Specifically aims to cancel out the impact or consequence of something, good or bad.

Bridge the divide

Metaphorically connects two disparate entities or quantities to reduce a gap.

Balance the equation

Highlights achieving equality or equilibrium, often in mathematical or figurative contexts.

Make amends

Implies compensating for a wrong or injury, often involving an apology or restitution.

FAQs

How can I use "Make up the difference" in a sentence?

You can use "Make up the difference" to describe compensating for a shortage or deficit. For example, "If sales are lower than expected, we'll need to "make up the difference" by cutting costs".

What are some alternatives to "Make up the difference"?

Alternatives include "compensate for the deficit", "cover the gap", or "offset the imbalance", depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "Make up the difference" or "Makeup the difference"?

"Make up the difference" is correct. "Makeup" as one word is a noun referring to cosmetics or a quality, while "make up" is a phrasal verb meaning to compensate or reconcile.

What's the difference between "Make up the difference" and "Close the gap"?

"Make up the difference" usually implies actively compensating for a specific shortage or deficit, while "close the gap" often refers to reducing a disparity or inequality, not necessarily through direct compensation.