get a makeover

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "get a makeover" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a significant change in appearance, style, or presentation, often related to personal grooming or home decor. Example: "After years of the same look, she decided it was time to get a makeover and refresh her style."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The place did get a makeover, though.

Independent

Get a makeover for yourself.

The New York Times - Magazine

To get a makeover: The Brooklyn Bridge.

The New Yorker

Junction boxes have become the latest street furniture to get a makeover.

Independent

The Guardian's fashion team get a makeover from the people who know them best - their partners.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The Accent subcompact was redesigned for 2000; the Tiburon sporty coupe will get a makeover next year.

The New York Times

Barbie needs to get a makeover, so that she looks somewhat normal, before she can be a role model.

The New York Times

Her characters should get out more, cheer up or take some Prozac, go shopping, get a makeover.

The Guardian - Books

That message is to be reinforced by content being developed for the bureau's Web site, which is to get a makeover in mid-October, Ms. Auerbach said.

The New York Times

Soon, though, the bears will get a makeover, with Mr. Quinn and others airbrushing colorfast dyes on their fur to return it to a more natural appearance.

The New York Times - Arts

But at least it is an excuse for the drab capital to get a makeover (see picture).Slums have been cleared, and glass towers are going up.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "get a makeover", consider whether the context implies primarily aesthetic changes or a more comprehensive transformation. Choose synonyms like "undergo a transformation" or "receive a revamp" for broader changes.

Common error

Avoid using "get a makeover" in formal or professional writing where a more sophisticated term like "undergo a transformation" or "receive a revamp" would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "get a makeover" functions primarily as a verb phrase. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use in describing actions related to changing appearance, style, or functionality, indicating a process of transformation or improvement. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Wiki

14%

Science

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "get a makeover" is a common and generally accepted verb phrase used to describe the action of transforming or improving something's appearance or functionality. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While primarily neutral in register, it is more suited to informal and general contexts than formal or scientific writing, where alternatives like "undergo a transformation" or "receive a revamp" might be more appropriate. The phrase is frequently found in news and media sources, as well as in wiki content, reflecting its broad applicability across diverse subjects. When considering using "get a makeover", ensure the context aligns with the desired level of formality and that the intended meaning—a change in appearance or functionality—is clearly conveyed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

get a new look

Focuses specifically on changes to appearance.

get a face-lift

A more informal term, often implying cosmetic or superficial changes.

undergo a transformation

Emphasizes a more profound or complete change than a simple makeover.

be restyled

Highlights changes in style, particularly in fashion or design contexts.

receive a revamp

Suggests a more functional or structural improvement rather than just aesthetic changes.

be remodeled

Typically used for buildings or structures undergoing significant changes.

be refurbished

Often refers to renovating or improving a space or object.

get an update

Implies modernization or bringing something up to current standards.

get a fresh start

Implies a broader change in circumstances or approach, not just appearance.

reinvent oneself

Indicates a fundamental shift in identity or approach.

FAQs

How can I use "get a makeover" in a sentence?

You can use "get a makeover" to describe a transformation in appearance or functionality. For example, "The house will "get a makeover" before being sold" or "She decided to "get a makeover" for her birthday".

What does it mean to "get a makeover"?

"Get a makeover" typically means to receive a transformation or significant improvement in appearance or functionality. It can refer to personal appearance, such as hair and makeup, or to the renovation of a space or object.

Which is correct, "get a makeover" or "receive a makeover"?

Both "get a makeover" and "receive a makeover" are grammatically correct and convey the same meaning. "Receive a makeover" is slightly more formal, while "get a makeover" is more common in everyday speech.

What are some alternatives to "get a makeover"?

Alternatives to "get a makeover" include "undergo a transformation", "receive a revamp", or "get a new look", depending on the context and the type of change being described.