Confusion : to make up for something? to catch up with someb

a project, and this delay may be long... But the points of view are different. You shouldn't

use one for the other, and even less, mix the two of them;  

A) TO MAKE UP FOR SOMETHING:

a) To compensate for something: 

To take the place of something lost or damaged or to compensate for something

bad with something good.

- Tim made up for his delay by working extra time in the evening. 

- You will need to apologise to make up for your rude behaviour. 

b) To use as a replacement for something missing, lost, or lacking.

- What he lacks in height, Little Tom makes up for in cunning. 

- Don't worry! I'll make up for lost time and do two lessons tonight. 

B) TO CATCH UP WITH SOMEBODY: 

If  something bad that you have done or that has been happening to you 

catches up with you, it begins to cause problems for you): to 'repay'

- His unhealthy habits caught up with him, and he has become very sick. 

- PUNISH:

- The authorities will catch up with you and discover that your ID is forged...

- TALK TO: 

Being in touch with someone and learning or discussing what has been happening in 

their lives.

- I have a lot to catch up with my high school friends...

The distinction may be a little tricky sometimes. First we have to make up for a delay already existing, and  then, we have to speak to avoid another extra delay.

Be careful and everything will be alright. Go for the test! 

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