be given a makeover

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be given a makeover" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when referring to a significant change or improvement in appearance or style, often related to fashion, design, or personal grooming. An example: "The old café will be given a makeover to attract more customers." Alternative expressions include "receive a transformation" and "undergo a revamp."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

What if e-mail could be given a makeover?

The Economist

They are to be given a makeover – bowdlerised as we used to say in English – to bring them up to date for today's children.

The Guardian

Locals occasionally run a cycling version of the Art Walk, and there are plans for Wynwood's cycle paths and crosswalks to be given a makeover by commissioned artists.

The Guardian - Travel

The Brit Awards – those bronze, helmeted female statuettes that have served as the Oscars of the British music industry for more than three decades – are to be given a makeover by the high priestess of punk, Vivienne Westwood.

Independent

Browns Hotel, which has been closed for five years, is to be given a makeover in time for the 100th anniversary of its most famous customer's birth.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Even Mario has been given a makeover.

The New York Times

John Garang's grave has been given a makeover.

Independent

This week, Eunice was given a makeover in green and white.

The New York Times - Sports

But the audition stages of the X Factor have been given a makeover.

The Guardian

Starbucks Gingerbread Latte This Red Cup favourite has been given a makeover for 2015.

Independent

It took more than 80 years, but the ancient compendium has been given a makeover.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be given a makeover" when you want to emphasize the passive aspect of receiving a transformation, suggesting that an external agent is responsible for the change. For example, "The website will be given a makeover by a professional design team."

Common error

Avoid using "be given a makeover" when the subject actively initiates the transformation. Instead, use a reflexive verb or active construction, such as "She gave herself a makeover" or "She underwent a makeover."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be given a makeover" functions as a passive construction, indicating that the subject receives a transformation performed by an unspecified agent. Ludwig's examples show its usage in describing renovations, redesigns, and stylistic changes.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be given a makeover" is a phrase used to describe something that receives a significant transformation, typically enhancing its appearance or functionality. Though grammatical and understandable, Ludwig AI indicates that it's a relatively infrequent phrase, often found in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, ensure the passive voice accurately reflects the scenario; otherwise, consider active alternatives like "undergo a transformation". Alternatives such as "receive a facelift" or "be revamped" might be more appropriate in certain contexts. If you want to convey more professional tone you can use these alternatives: "undergo renovation" or "be rehabilitated".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

undergo a transformation

Emphasizes a complete change in form or appearance, often more profound than a simple makeover.

be revamped

Implies a significant update and modernization, often used for systems or products.

receive a facelift

Specifically refers to improving the appearance, often associated with buildings or organizations.

be restyled

Highlights changes in style, especially in fashion or design.

be renovated

Focuses on the restoration and improvement of a space or object, typically involving structural changes.

be refurbished

Focuses on cleaning, repairing, and redecorating to improve the condition and appearance.

be remodeled

Implies a structural or design change to alter form or function.

be upgraded

Emphasizes improving functionality or performance by adding new features or components.

be refreshed

Suggests a lighter, less extensive change aimed at revitalizing appearance or appeal.

be visually enhanced

Focuses on improving the aesthetics and visual appeal.

FAQs

How can I use "be given a makeover" in a sentence?

Use "be given a makeover" to describe something or someone receiving a transformation or significant improvement in appearance. For instance, "The old theater will "be given a makeover" before the premiere."

What are some alternatives to "be given a makeover"?

Alternatives include phrases like "undergo a transformation", "receive a facelift", or "be revamped", depending on the specific context of the transformation.

Is it appropriate to use "be given a makeover" in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, "be given a makeover" is more common in news and media. For more formal contexts, consider alternatives such as "undergo renovation" or "be rehabilitated", which convey a similar meaning with a more professional tone.

What's the difference between "be given a makeover" and "get a makeover"?

"Be given a makeover" emphasizes the passive aspect of receiving the transformation from an external source. "Get a makeover", on the other hand, is a more general and can imply either active or passive receipt of the makeover.