Pronunciation: [mˈɑːks ˈʌp] (IPA) 
The phrase "marks up" is spelled with the letter "s" and not the letter "z", as some may expect, because it is derived from the verb "mark up". The "s" sound is represented by the letter "s" and not the letter "z". In IPA phonetic transcription, "marks up" is pronounced /mɑːks ʌp/, with the "s" sound represented by the symbol /s/. This phrase means to increase the price of something or to add markup to it.
The term "marks up" is a phrasal verb that refers to the act of increasing or raising the price of a product or service. It is typically used in the context of the retail industry and indicates the amount by which the original cost of an item is increased in order to generate profit. When a business "marks up" a product, it essentially adds a predetermined percentage or fixed amount to the cost price, resulting in a higher selling price.
The purpose of marking up prices is to cover various expenses and overhead costs incurred by the retailer, including operating expenses, employee salaries, rent, utilities, and other costs associated with running a business. Additionally, the markup allows for the generation of profit, which is a vital component for sustainable growth and continued operations.
The amount of markup can vary significantly between different industries, products, and retailers. Factors such as supply and demand, competition, and market conditions can also influence the degree of markup. In general, the markup percentage or multiplier is calculated by dividing the difference between the selling price and the cost price by the cost price itself.
The practice of marking up prices is a fundamental aspect of business operations, enabling retailers to generate revenue and sustain profitability. It is essential for businesses to carefully consider their pricing strategies, taking into account factors such as costs, profit margins, and customer expectations, in order to effectively mark up their products or services.
The phrase "marks up" is a combination of the word "mark" and the preposition "up". Each part has its own etymology:
1. Mark:
The word "mark" comes from the Old English word "mearc", which means a boundary or a sign. It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "marko" and the Proto-Indo-European root *merǵ-, meaning "boundary" or "edge". Over time, "mark" gained various meanings and uses, including the act of making a visible sign or indication.
2. Up:
The word "up" originates from the Old English word "up", which has remained relatively unchanged throughout the centuries. It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "up" and the Proto-Indo-European root *upo, which means "upward" or "up".
