Phrase guide

make up the numbers

verb · 1 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

verb

Meaning 1

To provide sufficient people to make an event worthwhile.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: idiomatic

Examples

  • We need eleven players, but we are only nine. Can you help us make up the numbers?

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.

Across languages

Translations

3 source translations are retained for this English entry.

  • Finnish: saada luku täyteen — to provide sufficient people
  • French: faire de la figuration — to provide sufficient people
  • Spanish: hacer bulto — to provide sufficient people