Using “make” and “do” in English

The two verbs “make” and “do” are often confused. Spanish and Portuguese speakers use the verb “hacer” or “fazer” to mean make or do. In English the meanings are similar, but there are differences.

Here are some rules for MAKE:

1. We use the verb “make” when someone creates, constructs or builds something.
• Make a dress
• Make a cake

2. We often use “make” when we refer to preparing food of any kind.
• Make a meal
• Make a cup of coffee
• Make breakfast

3. When we “make” something, this activity usually creates something you can touch.
• Make a cake

Here are some rules for DO:

1. We use the verb “do” when someone performs an action, activity, or task.
• Do a crossword puzzle
• Do the cleaning up

2. We often use “do” when we refer to work of any kind.
• Do your work
• Do homework
• Do laundry
• Do your job

3. When we “do” something, this activity doesn’t usually produce a physical object.
• Do your job

However, there are some exceptions which must be learned which involve standard collocations (phrasal verbs) that are used in English.

MAKE collocations:

• Make plans
• Make an exception
• Make arrangements
• Make a telephone call
• Make a decision
• Make a mistake
• Make noise
• Make money
• Make an excuse
• Make an effort
• Make friends

DO collocations:

• Do your best
• Do good
• Do harm
• Do a favor for
• Do business
• Do your nails
• Do badly

Try these!: