do vs make

  Do | Make

  When 'do' or 'make' are used as main verbs it can be confusing to ESL learners. The verb 'make'goes with some words and the verb 'do' with other words.

  Do

  We use the verb 'do' when someone performs an action, activity or task.

  • do a crossword

  • do the ironing

  • do the laundry

  • do the washing

  • do the washing up

  'Do' is often used when referring to work of any kind.

  do your work

  • do homework

  • do housework

  do your job

  ♦ !Note - these activities do not usually produce a physical object.

  'Do' for General Ideas

  Use the verb 'do' when speaking about things in general. In other words, to describe an action without saying exactly what the action is. This form is often used with the words 'something, nothing, anything, everything, etc.'

  I'm not doing anything today.

  He does everything for his mother.

  She's doing nothing.

  Important Expressions with 'Do'

  There are a number of standard expressions that take the verb 'do'. The best solution is to try to learn them.

  • do badly

  • do business

  • do the dishes

  • do a favour

  • do good

  • do harm

  • do time - (to go to prison)

  • do well

  • do your best

  • do your hair

  • do your nails

  • do your worst

  Make

  We use the verb 'make' for constructing, building or creating

  • make a dress

  • make food

  • make a cup of tea / coffee

  'Make' is often used when referring to preparing food of any kind.

  make a meal - breakfast / lunch / dinner

  ♦ !Note - these activities usually create something that you can touch.

  Important Expressions with 'Make'

  There are a number of standard expressions that take the verb 'make'. The best solution is to try to learn them.

  • make amends

  • make arrangements

  • make believe - (to pretend)

  • make a choice

  • make a comment

  • make a decision

  • make a difference

  • make an effort

  • make an enquiry

  • make an excuse

  • make a fool of yourself

  • make a fortune

  • make friends

  • make a fuss

  • make a journey

  • make love

  • make a mess

  • make a mistake

  • make money

  • make a move

  • make a noise

  • make a payment

  • make a phone call

  • make a plan

  • make a point

  • make a profit

  • make a promise

  • make a remark

  • make a sound

  • make a speech

  • make a suggestion

  • make time

  • make a visit

  • make your bed - (to prepare the bed for sleeping in)