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The differences between do and make

Do vs. Make: Understanding the Difference and How to Use Them Correctly 

As a learner of the English language, you may have encountered confusion between the two verbs "do" and "make." They both refer to actions, but it's not always clear which one to use in a given context. This article will explore the difference between "do" and "make" and provide some examples to help you use them correctly.

"DO" - When to Use It

The verb "do" is often used when referring to a task, activity, or action that needs to be done, accomplished, or completed. It usually follows the name of the task or activity. Some examples include:

Do the laundry

Do the dishes

Do homework

Do exercise

Do a presentation

Do a favor

Do a job

Do your best

Sometimes, "do" can also be used as a substitute for a more specific verb when the action is unclear, such as "I will do something about it."

"MAKE" - When to Use It

The verb "make," on the other hand, is typically used when referring to the creation, construction, or preparation of something. It is often followed by a noun indicating the object created or the action performed. Some examples include:

Make dinner

Make a cake

Make art

Make a plan

Make a phone call

Make a bed

Make a decision

Make a purchase

Make a donation

"Make" can also be used to indicate causation, meaning that something caused an event to happen. For example, "The weather made me cancel my plans."

Key Differences Between "DO" and "MAKE"

The key difference between "do" and "make" is that "do" refers to an action or task, while "make" refers to the creation or production of something. However, there are some exceptions and overlap between the two, which can be confusing.

One way to differentiate between the two is to consider the end result. For example, when you "do" the laundry, the end result is clean clothes. When you "make" dinner, the end result is a meal. By understanding the outcome of the action, you can determine which verb to use.

Another way to differentiate between the two is to think about the specific verbs that can be used with each. For example, "do" is often used with physical activities such as exercise, while "make" is used with creative activities such as art.

Conclusion (Do or Make) 

In conclusion, understanding the difference between "do" and "make" is essential to using them correctly in English. Remember that "do" is used for tasks and actions, while "make" is used for creation and production. Keep in mind the exceptions and overlap between the two, and pay attention to the specific verbs that are commonly used with each. By following these guidelines, you can improve your English communication and avoid common mistakes.

Quiz: Do or Make?

Instructions: Choose whether to use "do" or "make" to complete each sentence.

1. I need to _____ the laundry this evening.
2. She wants to _____ a cake for her friend's birthday.
3. He needs to _____ some exercise to stay healthy.
4. I'm going to _____ a plan to achieve my goals.
5. The artist is going to _____ a sculpture out of clay.
6. The students have to _____ their homework every day.
7. He's going to _____ a phone call to his boss.
8. She wants to _____ a difference in the world by volunteering.
9. He has to _____ a presentation at the conference next week.
10. I'm going to _____ my bed before I leave for work.

 

Answers to the Quiz: Do or Make 

1. do
2. make
3. do
4. make
5. make
6. do
7. make
8. make
9. do
10. make

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