1 B2 idiomatic informal
To produce or create something quickly and apparently effortlessly, especially when resources or time are limited.
"The chef managed to magic up a three-course dinner from whatever was left in the fridge."
separable
magic up
B2 informal separable transitive
To produce, create, or obtain something quickly and seemingly effortlessly, as if by magic.
In plain English
To make something appear very quickly, like a magician pulling a rabbit from a hat — usually when it seems almost impossible.
What does "magic up" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic informal
To make something appear or materialize as if by magic, often used ironically when the speaker doubts this is possible.
"I can't just magic up a thousand pounds — where do you think the money comes from?"
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
'Magic' as a verb (to produce by magic) + 'up' (to summon, to produce). The metaphor is clear and adds expressiveness.
Actually means
To make something appear very quickly, like a magician pulling a rabbit from a hat — usually when it seems almost impossible.
Usage tip
Informal and expressive. Often used when someone manages to produce a solution, meal, money, or object with surprising speed. Frequently used in slightly exasperated or impressed contexts: 'I can't just magic up a solution from thin air.' Common in British English.
Words that pair with "magic up"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
solution money meal answer ideas resources
How to conjugate "magic up"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
magic up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
magics up
he/she/it
Past simple
magiced up
yesterday
Past participle
magiced up
have + pp
-ing form
magicing up
continuous
Hear "magic up" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "magic up" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "magic up"
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