makeover

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "makeover" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when referring to a transformation or significant change in appearance or style. An example is: "She decided to give her living room a makeover." Alternative expressions include "transformation," "revamp," and "redesign."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

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

The Guardian

For our energy makeover this week I was given a standby saver, which was useful; I plugged my television into it and it has a sensor that responds to a signal from the TV remote control, so I just use that instead of switching the plug off at the wall.

The Guardian

Moscow has been gentrifying at breakneck speed, from the burgeoning creative industries to the multi-million-pound makeover of Gorky Park.

The Guardian

Although we'd already made a lot of the changes suggested in our five-minute energy makeover, it's always good to think of new ways to save energy.

The Guardian

Carly: This week we had to undertake a five-minute energy makeover, so we were given standby savers and energy-saving lightbulbs to fit across the house.

The Guardian

The codes of Balenciaga were celebrated in a series of exquisite cocoon-shaped coats, given a sports makeover with go-faster stripes of silver zips.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Instead, aides convinced Rousseff of the need for a dramatic makeover inspired by Venezuelan fashion designer Carolina Herrera.

The Guardian

The fourth biggest-selling single of 2014 was recently subjected to a makeover – which one might most charitably describe as "wholly unnecessary" – featuring Chris Brown and TI.

The Guardian - Music

Capital's makeover has failed so far to win over the hearts and ears of Londoners, coming third in reach and share behind the biggest commercial station in London Chrysalis' Heart, and Emap's Magic.

The Guardian

But they did promise $10m to makeover the ground, after the Labor Party promised the same amount to do that, for reasons known only to the Labor Party given it changed their vote in Warringah not at all.

The Guardian - Sport

Indeed a whole Star Wars makeover for the sport might be an idea.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "makeover" to describe substantial changes in appearance or function. Be specific about what is being transformed (e.g., "home makeover", "image makeover").

Common error

Avoid using "makeover" to describe trivial changes. Reserve it for situations involving significant alterations, as overuse can dilute its impact.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "makeover" is as a noun. It refers to a process or result of transforming something's appearance or function. Ludwig provides examples where "makeover" is used to describe changes in various contexts, from physical appearances to strategic shifts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "makeover" functions primarily as a noun, denoting a transformation or significant change. Ludwig AI confirms its broad usage across various contexts, from cosmetic enhancements to strategic overhauls. It maintains a neutral register, making it suitable for both formal and informal communication. Though "makeover" is widely used, be mindful of its application to ensure it accurately reflects the degree of change. Consider alternatives like "transformation", "revamp", or "renovation" based on the specific context. Ludwig's analysis, backed by numerous real-world examples, underscores the versatility and prevalence of "makeover" in contemporary English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

transformation

Emphasizes a significant change in form or nature, similar to a "makeover" but can be broader in scope.

renovation

Focuses on repairing and improving an existing structure or space, akin to a "makeover" for buildings.

revamp

Suggests a more thorough and revitalizing "makeover", often implying modernization.

remodeling

Implies altering the structure or form of something, sharing the idea of a significant "makeover".

face-lift

Refers to a cosmetic improvement, comparable to a "makeover" primarily focused on appearance.

restyling

Focuses on changing the style or design, similar to a "makeover" concerning fashion or aesthetics.

reconstruction

Implies rebuilding or re-creating something, similar to a more extensive "makeover".

improvement

Indicates a general enhancement, which can be achieved through a "makeover".

overhaul

Suggests a comprehensive renovation or revision, a more intense form of "makeover".

redesign

Focuses on creating a new design, akin to a "makeover" that changes the appearance and functionality.

FAQs

How can I use "makeover" in a sentence?

You can use "makeover" to describe a transformation or significant change in appearance or style. For example, "The house underwent a complete "renovation" and received a stunning "makeover"".

What's a good alternative to using the word "makeover"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "transformation", "revamp", or "remodeling" to convey a similar meaning.

Is "makeover" suitable for formal writing?

"Makeover" is generally acceptable in most contexts, including news and media. However, in highly formal or academic writing, a more precise term like "transformation" or "renovation" might be preferred.

What is the difference between a "makeover" and a "renovation"?

While both imply change, "makeover" often refers to cosmetic or stylistic changes, whereas "renovation" typically involves structural repairs or improvements.