The difference between DO and MAKE in English

13th August 2017

“Do” and “make” are two verbs which often confuse students. The verb ‘make’ goes with some words and the verb ‘do’ with other words. These are called collocations. Do you know which ones? Don’t worry if you don’t. We are back with another #Study Trip to teach you the difference between Do and Make and when to use each one.

When do we use DO? 

DO is a general word for actions:

What are you doing this evening?

Julia’s job is very boring. She does the same thing every day.

I did a lot of things yesterday.

What do you do?  = What is your job?

Answer= I work in a bank.

We also use DO to replace a verb when the meaning is clear or obvious.  This is more common in informal spoken English.

Do I need to do my hair? (do= brush or comb)

Have you done the dishes yet? (done = washed)

Remember DO can also be an auxiliary very

Expressions with DO

Also do the shopping, the washing, the washing-up, the ironing, the cooking etc.

When do we use MAKE?

Make = produce/create. For example:

She’s making coffee.

He has made a cake.

They make umbrellas.

It was made in Spain.

Expressions with MAKE

 We say make a film but take a photograph.

Compare DO and MAKE

I did a lot of things yesterday: I cleaned my house, I sent some emails, and I made a cake.

What do you do in your free time?

I make clothes. I make dresses and jackets. I also make toys for children.

 For more Study Tips, you can read our Study Tips posts.