Do and Make

The verbs 'Do' and 'Make' are often confused because they are both used as general verbs to talk about things we do. There is no fixed rule to help you choose the correct verb, so you need to remember the correct verb for each activity. However.....

We often use 'Do' followed by words for work, or indefinite activities.

• I forgot to do my homework.

• Can you do the washing today?

• My wife does the shopping every Saturday.

• The Government needs to do something to reduce immigration.

• I did a lot of work today.

Here are some common examples of things we 'do':

• I did my homework before I went to bed.

• A housewife does a lot of housework.

• My mother does a lot of work in the house.

• Paola isn't at home at the moment. She's in town, doing the shopping.

• She was doing the cleaning when I arrived home.

• You can’t do everything yourself, but you can do anything with a little help.

• Paul did well in his exams, but Susan did badly in her English test.

• If you want to be healthy, you should do lots of exercise.

• If you are bored, you can do a course in photography.

• I prefer to relax and do absolutely nothing!

• If you are a good person, you can do a friend a favour.

• Scientists do research.

We often use 'Make' with the meaning of to create, or construct:

• I made an appointmentto visit my Doctor.

• I made a mistake.

• My mother made lasagna for dinner last night.

• Do you want me to make a cup of coffee for you?

• I forgot to make the bed this morning.

Here are some common examples of things we 'make':

• My mother was making breakfast in the kitchen when I woke up.

• She is a good cook makes lovely bread!

• She makes a lot of noise when she is cooking.

• Richard Branson made a lot of money when he started Virgin Records.

• Something or somebody can make you happy, unhappy, jealous, sad and, if you're lucky, rich!

• Last night, my father made Irish coffee with whiskey.

• My wife enjoys making clothes, especially baby clothes.

• We all have to make difficult choices. We also make decisions, suggestions and assessments. You can also make exceptions.

• Can I make a phone call?

• I made an appointment to see my doctor.

• You should make a list of the words you want to remember.

• Unemployment makes life difficult, but money makes life easier.

There are also many idiomatic expressions that use the verbs do or make.
To do your best............to make progress.................to do your duty...............to make a fortune