When Do I Use 'Make' And When Do I Use 'Do' In English - Learn Correct Grammar
- Catherine
- Aug 1
- 4 min read
Understanding when to use "make" versus "do" is crucial for anyone looking to improve their English grammar. While both verbs can mean similar things in other languages, their specific uses in English can completely change the meaning of a sentence. This article will guide you through the distinctions and provide you with clear examples.
Understanding the Basics
"Make" and "do" are both action verbs, but they have different meanings in English. "Make" typically refers to creating or building something, while "do" is more about performing an action or completing a task.
For example, if you are creating something tangible, such as in cooking or crafting, you would use "make":
"I will make a cake." This sentence indicates that you are creating a cake from scratch.
From scratch is an English expression that means 'from nothing', nothing existed before you started putting ingredients or resources together to make this item.
On the other hand, when you're involved in an activity or task, you would use "do":
"I need to do my homework." Here, "do" focuses on the effort of completing the assignment.
Common Expressions with 'Make'
Many expressions in English commonly use "make." Here are a few examples:
Make an appointment: Setting a specific time for a meeting, such as a doctor's visit.
Make a decision: Choosing between options, like selecting a restaurant for dinner.
Make a mistake: Typing the wrong answer on a test.
Make a promise: To commit to action, like assuring someone you'll help them with their project.
Using "make" in these phrases emphasizes the act of creating or committing.
Common Expressions with 'Do'
Likewise, "do" pairs with several specific expressions. Here are some examples:
Do your best: Trying your hardest, such as preparing for an exam.
Do the laundry: This phrase means washing clothes, which typically involves sorting, washing, and drying them.
Do a favor: Performing a helpful act, like helping a friend move furniture.
Do research: Investigating or studying something, such as gathering data for a school project.
In these cases, "do" emphasizes the effort involved in completing tasks.
Tips for Correct Grammar Usage
To use "make" and "do" correctly, consider the context of your sentence. If the focus is on creating or constructing something, "make" is usually the right option. If your emphasis is on the action or process, then "do" is the better choice.
Keep in mind that "make" often involves a result, while "do" emphasizes the process. For instance, saying "I will make dinner" highlights the final product, whereas "I will do the cooking" focuses on the actions taken to prepare the meal.
One exception - because English always includes an exception doesn't it.
Is 'make the bed', we are not making a bed from scratch of course, we are just putting the covers and pillows back on the bed after a nights sleep. However we use the expression make the bed instead of do the bed, to identify - make it look presentable.
Final Thoughts
Mastering when to use "make" and "do" can greatly improve your English communication. By grasping their unique roles in sentences, you can not only sound more fluent but also express your ideas more clearly. Practice these guidelines in your daily conversations and writing, and watch as your confidence in English grows. Understanding these verbs will enhance your language skills and enrich your communication with others.
More Examples for Do.
do the housework After I got home from the office, I was too tired to do the housework.
do the laundry I really need to do the laundry – I don’t have any clean clothes left!
do the dishes I’ll make dinner if you do the dishes afterwards. (you can also say “wash the dishes”)
do the shopping I went to the bank, did some shopping, and mailed a package at the post office.
do work I can’t go out this weekend – I have to do some work on an extra project.
do homework You can’t watch any TV until you’ve done your homework.
do business We do business with clients in fifteen countries.
do a good/great/terrible job She did a good job organising the party. (in this expression, “job” doesn’t necessarily refer to work. It simply means the person did something well)
do a report I’m doing a report on the history of American foreign policy. (you can also say “writing a report”)
do a course We’re doing a course at the local university. (you can also say “taking a course”)
do exercise I do at least half an hour of exercise every day.
do your hair (= style your hair) I’ll be ready to go in 15 minutes – I just need to do my hair.
do anything / something / everything / nothing Are you doing anything special for your birthday? You can’t do everything by yourself – let me help you.
do your best Don’t worry about getting everything perfect – just do your best.
More Examples for Make.
make breakfast/lunch/dinner I’m making dinner – it’ll be ready in about ten minutes.
make a cup of tea Would you like me to make you a cup of tea?
make a reservation I’ve made a reservation for 7:30 at our favourite restaurant.
make money I enjoy my job, but I don’t make very much money.
make a profit The new company made a profit within its first year.
make friends It’s hard to make friends when you move to a big city.
make fun of someone (= tease / mock someone) The other kids made fun of Jimmy when he got glasses, calling him “four eyes.”
make up (= resolve a problem in a relationship) Karen and Jennifer made up after the big fight they had last week.
make a speech The company president made a speech about ethics in the workplace.
make a suggestion Can I make a suggestion? I think you should cut your hair shorter – it’d look great on you!
make a prediction It’s difficult to make any predictions about the future of the economy.
make an excuse When I asked him if he’d finished the work, he started making excuses about how he was too busy.
make a promise I made a promise to help her whenever she needs it. (you can also say, “I promised to help her whenever she needs it.”)
For English lessons or questions about this article contact - catherine@theenglishcat.com