Using 'Do' or 'Make'

Using ‘Do’ or ‘Make’

/ December 18, 2012 / Comments Off on Using ‘Do’ or ‘Make’ / Language Functions, Speak Well

written by Lilian Ndongmo. ESL Teacher

When and how to use “do” or “make” can be quite confusing. Using these verbs in other languages can be a lot easier.

For example:

 In French, ‘do’/’make’ is indicated by the verb “faire“. 

In Spanish, the verb “hacer“.

In Chinese, that’s another story.

Using ‘DO’

  • Use ‘DO’ for activities related to any kind of work, an action or  a task

Example:

Do homework

Do a job

Do the shopping

  • Use ‘Do’ with words like anything, nothing, something, etc. ( to give only a general idea of an action)

Example:

Please do something to help her.

He did nothing to save the dog.

General Expressions with ‘Do’

–These are fixed expressions.

Example:

Do damage

Do your best

Do your hair

 Using “Make”

  • For creative activities, including construction and building

Example:

Make a dress

Make a toy house

Make a road / bridge

  • For the preparation of food

Example:

Make a sandwich

Make a cup of tea

 General Expressions with Make

Make an effort

Make a mess

Make a mistake 

Note: The best way to master using Do or Make is to learn by heart.

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