do/make?

[Carmenn]

hi...i have a question for you: what's the difference between these two words: do/make?...in wich context can i use ''do'' ? what about ''make''?cuz actually there are similar meanings...

[Jason72]

TO DO means to perform or to execute, whilst TO MAKE means to bring into existence(usu. by shaping, modifying, or putting together material, etc.).
But I need more context, I certainly cannot remember everything concerning DO and MAKE now.

[Carmenn]

I canot give you a certain context, but thanks anyway.

[Jason72]

Meanings of TO MAKE and TO DO are way comprehensive. It would be VERY hard to explain all the meanings.

[Jason72]

An explanation
The two verbs 'do' and 'make' are often confused. The meanings are similar, but there are differences.
'Do' for Activities

Use the verb 'do' to express daily activities or jobs. Notice that these are usually activities that produce no physical object.

do homework
do housework
do the ironing
do the dishes
do a job

'Do' for General Ideas

Use the verb 'do' when speaking about things in general. In other words, when we do not exactly name an activity. This form is often used with the words 'something, nothing, anything, everything, etc.'

I'm not doing anything today.
He does everything for his mother.
She's doing nothing at the moment.

Important Expressions with 'Do'

There are a number of standard expressions that take the verb 'do'. These are standard collocations (verb + noun combinations) that are used in English.

do one's best
do good
do harm
do a favour
do business

'Make' for Constructing, Building, Creating

Use 'make' to express an activity that creates something that you can touch.

make food
make a cup of tea / coffee
make a mess

Important Expressions with 'Make'

There are a number of standard expressions that take the verb 'make'. In a number of cases the verb 'do' seems more appropriate. These are standard collocations (verb + noun combinations) that are used in English.

make plans
make an exception
make arrangements
make a telephone call
make a decision
make a mistake
make noise
make money
make an excuse
make an effort



This will do, I think...

[Carmenn]

Yes, it helped me a lot.Thanks for all the examples.

[Jason72]

You are welcome!