Meaning
To "make up your mind" is to decide, especially after going back and forth for a while. The picture is of your mind as something unfinished that you finally put together into one clear shape. It changes with the person: "I made up my mind", "She can't make up her mind", "Have you made up your mind yet?" The words can also split: "I can't make my mind up" means the same thing.
When you describe yourself or others, it's neutral and useful anywhere: "We've made up our minds. We're moving to Seattle." You'll also hear "My mind is made up," which means the decision is final and there's no point arguing.
Watch the imperative. "Make up your mind" said straight to someone who is still deciding sounds impatient, like a parent losing patience in a store. With friends it can be a joke; with a coworker or a customer it's rude. A kinder way to hurry someone is "No rush, but have you decided?" or "Are you leaning one way?"
In a conversation
- Yuki
- Tyler
- Yuki
- Tyler
- Yuki
Say it out loud
Tap a sentence to hear it. Say it after the voice.
Check yourself
Practice · 3 min
Listen, then repeat. "Make up your mind" is smooth and quick, with the stress on "mind".
Say it today
Use it once in a real conversation before tomorrow. Out loud counts, even to yourself.