Spelling Question

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juliaamos
Posts: 12
Joined: Sun Jul 18, 2010 5:02 pm

Spelling Question

Post by juliaamos »

I'm in the middle of proofreading an article, and I can't decide which spelling is correct. For the word "make up" (as in cosmetics), I've seen it spelled "make up", "makeup", and "make-up." Which is correct? Or, if they're all technically right, which is most universally accepted?

Thanks!
aprilk10
Posts: 298
Joined: Sat Feb 27, 2010 1:34 pm

Re: Spelling Question

Post by aprilk10 »

I think makeup and make-up are both accepted. I don't like "make up," as that version seems to apply more to "making up" a story or "making up" with someone.
Celeste Stewart
Posts: 3528
Joined: Sun Jan 08, 2006 5:28 pm
Location: California
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Re: Spelling Question

Post by Celeste Stewart »

Hello. Make up is a verb; makeup is a noun or adjective. (AP Style Guide)

So: Make up (verb) your mind whether or not you want to buy expensive makeup (noun) for your new makeup (adjective) case.

Related: set up/setup (Set up your computer in a central room in your house. Use the software's setup file only after reading the directions.)
juliaamos
Posts: 12
Joined: Sun Jul 18, 2010 5:02 pm

Re: Spelling Question

Post by juliaamos »

Makeup it is! Thanks for the help =)
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