Make or do?
The verbs�do�and�make�can be confusing in English because the meaning is similar but they co-occur with different words. For example, you can say:
do an exercise.
But you can't say:
do a cake*.
The phrase�do an exercise�is called acollocation.
Definition of collocations
Collocations refer to words that usually go together. They co-occur more often than would be expected by chance.
So how can you distinguish between collocations with make and do?
Generally speaking, use�do�for activity andmake�to create something. Compare these examples:
I always�do�my homework in the evenings.I like spaghetti. I�make�it everyday
But there are other things to consider when using�do�and�make. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice.
Collocations with make and do
Collocations with do?
Use�do�when someone performs an action, activity or task.�
Examples:
do
...the dishes�
... an exercise�
... the laundry
... the ironing
... the shopping
We use often use�do�to refer to work of any kind.
Examples:
do�
... your work�
... homework�
... housework
... your job
... business
... your hair�
... your nails
Use the verb�'do'�when you speak about general things (to describe an action without saying exactly what the action is.)
Examples:
I've got nothing to�do�today.
He doesn't�do�anything all day long.
She�does�everything to attract him.
These are other expressions that you can use with�do:
Examples:
do
... one's best
... good
... harm
... a favor
... business
... things right / badly / well�
... good�
... harm�
... time - (to go to prison)�
... your best / worst.
Collocations with make?
We use the verb�make�to construct, build or create. The result is something that you can touch.
They make tea with mint in Morocco.�
She�makes�beautiful dresses.
Let's�make�a cup of coffee!�
can you�make�a cup of tea?
They�make�delicious food in this restaurant!
These are some important expressions that you can use with make:
make
... arrangements
... an attempt�
... bed�
... believe�
... change
... a choice
... a comment
... a complaint�
... a decision
... a demand�
... a difference�
... an effort
... an exception
... an excuse�
... an inquiry�
... a fool of yourself�
... a fortune
... friends�
... a fuss�
... a journey�
... love�
... a mess�
... a mistake�
... money�
... a move�
... a noise
... an offer�
... peace�
... a phone call
... a plan
... a point�
... a profit�
... a promise�
... a remark
... a sound
... a speech
... a suggestion
... time�
... a visit
... war