make a mistake
I really messed up my presentation by forgetting my notes.
mess up — 3 meanings
Same words, different jobs. Compare the meanings side by side so you know which one fits the situation.
phrasal verb3 meanings
mess upsame phrase
Which one do you mean?
make untidy
The kids messed up the living room with their toys.
emotionally disturb
The constant criticism from her parents really messed her up as a teenager.
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Meanings in detail
1. make a mistake
B1informalspoken
To do something incorrectly or make a mistake that causes a problem.
I really messed up my presentation by forgetting my notes.
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Sign in to unlock2. make untidy
B1informalspoken
To make something disorganized or dirty; to make a place or thing messy.
The kids messed up the living room with their toys.
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Sign in to unlock3. emotionally disturb
C1informalspoken
To cause someone emotional or psychological harm, distress, or long-term difficulties, often as a result of a traumatic or negative experience.
The constant criticism from her parents really messed her up as a teenager.
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