How to Pronounce "make up the numbers"
expression
ˈmeɪk/ /ˈəp/ /ˈðə/, /ðə/, /ði/ /ˈnəmbɝz
MAYK-UP-thuh-NUM-berz
mˈeɪk/ /ˈʌp/ /ðə, ði/ /nˈʌmbəz
MAYK-UP-thuh-NUM-buhz
Definition
To join a group or team just so there are enough people, often without playing an important role.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈmeɪk/ /ˈəp/ /ˈðə/, /ðə/, /ði/ /ˈnəmbɝz
British English
mˈeɪk/ /ˈʌp/ /ðə, ði/ /nˈʌmbəz
Simplified Pronunciation
US
MAYK-UP-thuh-NUM-berz
UK
MAYK-UP-thuh-NUM-buhz
Listen in Context
He was only there to make up the numbers in the game.
We need one more player just to make up the numbers.
Sometimes volunteers are asked to make up the numbers for events.
Honestly, I felt like I was just there to make up the numbers.