Make and do

Make and do often present problems for learners of English as the two verbs often translate to one verb in other languages. So what exactly is the difference?

The first thing to say is that rather than learning a single rule the learner probably has to consider each example individually. That is to say, learn the fixed expression. However, having said that, there is a basic concept which can separate the two verbs.

Do is all about actions. It’s about performing activities. Here are some common examples:

He’s not doing anything

She should do something

They did the washing (up).

I’ll do the shopping later

It’ll do no good at all

What are you doing?

Could you do me a favour?

Make is about creating something. Bringing something into existence:

I finally made a decision

Make me a sandwich will you?

The company made a profit last year

He makes a good living as a plumber

I’m making a new table for the kitchen

I make my bed every morning

It just doesn’t make sense

There are also idioms with make and do. What do you think the following means?

He made such a scene. We were all so embarrassed!

Try to make sense of this expression. That’s your homework, so go and do it!