to make do with

to accept something that is unsatisfactory because you have no choice: Sorry guys, but you’ll have to make do with the old coffee machine. The company hasn’t budgeted for a new one this year.

to make it

to arrive: Although his plane was over three hours late, John made it to the meeting on time.

to succeed: Although we had a really tight deadline the team finished the project on time. Thanks guys – I knew you could make it.

to make of

to understand: I don’t know what to make of the client’s behaviour. It doesn’t make any sense.

to make off with

to steal: We’ve just found out that Dave made off with two company laptops before he was fired.

to make (something) out

to be able to see or hear something: The phone line was so bad I could hardly make out a word he said.

to see a detail: If you look closely at the satellite photograph you can just make out my house.

to understand a person’s character (make somebody out): The new guy started in the office today. I can’t make him out. He wears really cool clothes, but he acts like a total geek.

to make (something) up

to invent a story: You know that new guy in the office? He’s been fired. It turns out his CV was totally made up.

to make up for

to compensate: I really sorry I was available to help yesterday. Let me make up for it. Can I buy you lunch?

to mark (something) down

to reduce the price: Supertech has marked down ipads by 20%.
The compound noun “markdown” means reduction.

to mark up

to increase the price: They always mark up products by a big margin in tourist shops.
The compound noun “mark-up” means reduction.

to measure up (to)

to reach the required standard: We always interview candidates at least three times to ensure they measure up.

to meet up (with sb.)

to meet somebody briefly: I met up with the client when I was in London.

to mount up

to accumulate: The firm’s profits have not met targets for two years and debts are mounting up.

to move (something) ahead / along

to progress: We’re moving along with the project nicely, and provided there are no problems we should be able to meet the deadline.

to move on

to make a change: My ten years at the firm have been an unforgettable experience, but now it is time for me to move on.

to muddle through

to achieve something without the required knowledge or experience: I hear your personal assistant is off sick this week? I’m sure you’ll muddle through somehow – you always do!

to mug up (on)

to study something quickly: Apparently the play is entirely in French. He says he’s going to mug up on his French before he goes.

to muscle in (on)

to become involved in something despite opposition to your involvement: Richard is now muscling in on the marketing department, despite Andrea telling him very clearly that she does not need his help.