'Do' vs 'Make'
B1 IntermediateDistinguishing between 'do' and 'make' involves identifying whether the focus is on a process or the creation of a tangible result.
Core Differences
The verb do typically focuses on the process of performing a task, duty, or activity without producing a physical object. The verb make focuses on the outcome, creation, or construction of something that did not exist before.
Usage Patterns
While these rules cover many cases, several expressions are fixed collocations that must be memorized, such as make the bed or do a favor.
| Category | Do | Make |
|---|---|---|
| General Focus | Work, jobs, and repetitive tasks. | Producing, building, and creating. |
| Examples | Do homework, do the dishes, do exercise. | Make a cake, make a noise, make a decision. |
| Abstract vs. Concrete | Indefinite activities (do something). | Specific results or reactions. |
Common Collocations
Common Mistakes
I need to make my homework.
I need to do my homework.
Homework is a task or duty, which requires 'do'.
Can you do a photo of us?
Can you take a photo of us?
While 'make' is for creating, 'take' is the specific collocation for photography.
He did a mistake on the test.
He made a mistake on the test.
Mistakes are considered 'created' outcomes, so 'make' is used.
Practice
Could you please ___ me a favor and carry this bag?
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do
Answer:do
Why:'Do a favor' is a fixed expression involving an action performed for someone else.
I am going to ___ a reservation at the restaurant for 8 PM.
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make
Answer:make
Why:'Make a reservation' involves creating an arrangement or result.
We usually ___ the shopping on Saturday mornings.
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do
Answer:do
Why:'Do the shopping' refers to a regular chore or task.