make up numbers

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make up numbers" is not a valid phrase in standard written English.
It does not make sense in its own right and must be used in the context of a larger sentence. For example, "The authors were unable to find reliable data, so they had to make up numbers for their research."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

Don't make up numbers.

The New York Times

Not here to make up numbers, he claims.

Independent

Lack refused to make up numbers by employing newly qualified teachers.

The Guardian

If Japan wanted, it could make up numbers the way other countries do, by accepting immigrants.

The Economist

"I'm happy but I'm not going to Moscow just to make up numbers.

The Guardian - Sport

But Denver did not bring in Manning just to make up numbers, either.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

Making up numbers.

The New York Times - Magazine

Also known as making up numbers.

The Washington Post

Others were showing made up numbers, or numbers cloned, without authorisation, from unsuspecting legitimate businesses.

The Guardian - Business

"For a while there," he said, wistfully, "my agent was just making up numbers.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"If they are making up numbers, we will catch them on the back end," Mr. Walsh said last fall.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you mean to create or invent false numbers, clarify the intent by using phrases like "fabricate data" or "falsify figures" to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "make up numbers" when you actually mean 'estimate' or 'approximate'. Using more precise language enhances clarity and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make up numbers" functions primarily as a verb phrase. It describes the action of creating numerical data, often with the connotation of inventing or falsifying information. Ludwig AI considers it needing contextual understanding.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "make up numbers" is a common way to describe creating or inventing numerical data. While Ludwig AI flags it as needing contextual understanding, its frequency in news and media sources indicates widespread use. However, its informal register means that alternatives like "fabricate statistics" or "falsify figures" are often more appropriate for formal writing. When using this phrase, ensure your intent is clear, as it can imply deception or simply inaccurate estimation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Fabricate statistics

Emphasizes the act of creating false statistical data.

Falsify figures

Highlights the deception involved in manipulating numerical data.

Invent data

Focuses on the creation of entirely new and untrue data.

Concoct numbers

Implies a more elaborate and imaginative process of creating false numbers.

Generate fictitious data

Stresses the artificial and unreal nature of the created information.

Cook up figures

A more informal way to describe creating deceptive figures.

Manipulate statistics

Suggests a skillful alteration of existing data to mislead.

Forge numerical data

Implies creating fraudulent numerical information.

Estimate inaccurately

Underlines the lack of precision and reliability in numerical estimation.

Speculate wildly

Suggests guesswork and a lack of factual basis in numerical assessments.

FAQs

What does "make up numbers" mean?

The phrase "make up numbers" generally means to invent or fabricate data, often with the intent to deceive or mislead. It can also mean to estimate or approximate numbers, though this usage is less common and can be unclear.

How can I use "make up numbers" in a sentence?

While "make up numbers" is commonly used, consider using more precise alternatives like "fabricate statistics" or "falsify figures" to avoid ambiguity and enhance clarity.

What are some alternatives to saying "make up numbers"?

You can use alternatives like "invent data", "concoct numbers", or "estimate inaccurately" depending on the context and the specific meaning you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "make up numbers"?

Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase "make up numbers" isn't standard written English and requires contextual understanding. While commonly used, particularly in informal contexts, it may be more appropriate to use more precise and formal alternatives in professional or academic writing.