The English Language has a unique sentence structure and many words that are similar in their use to one another. Because of this, language learners are often confused by actions that are almost identical in definition but different in their use.
The words “do” and “make” are the perfect examples. Both indicate the action of performance, but we use them to express different types of activities and their results.
Confused? Don’t be. We define their use with examples below and have provided simple exercises in a printable worksheet you can practice with.
Do vs. Make: What’s the Difference?
Do and make are similar verbs. Both deal with the action of creation or completion but have very different uses in a sentence.
Do means to perform, achieve, or complete. Use “do” for actions you must perform, like work or a sport or activities such as folding laundry or outdoor chores.
For example:
- I have to do my homework before I can play video games.
- What are you going to do about your car’s flat tire?
- I did nothing fun all weekend; all I did was work.
Make means to combine, construct, create, or bring about. Use “make” when you are expressing the creation or production of something that is measurable.
For example:
- I made Christmas cookies.
- You are making a mess, and I expect you to clean it up.
- She makes enough money at work to afford a family vacation every year.