Make and do both translate to a single verb in many languages, which is exactly why English learners mix them up so often.
Make usually involves creating or producing something new.
make full definition →
Do usually involves performing an action, task, or activity, without necessarily creating a physical thing.
do full definition →
| make | do | |
|---|---|---|
| Core idea | Creating or producing something | Performing an activity or task |
| Common set phrases | make a mistake, make money, make a decision | do homework, do a favor, do business |
| Simple test | Can you picture a finished product? | Is it more of an ongoing task? |
Make when something is created. Do when an action is performed. Beyond that, a lot of it comes down to fixed expressions worth memorizing, like make a decision and do your best.
Save both words to GoVocab and review them until they stick.
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