The words ‘do’ and ‘make’ are often confused. While they are similar, there are differences between them that must be noted.
‘Do’ is used as follows:
- For daily activities.
Do homework.
Do the dishes.
- In general reference, ie, when one does not have a specific activity in mind.
I’m not doing anything tonight.
You are doing too much for one person.
- In standard expressions, ie, collocations (verb + noun combinations) that have become standardised through usage.
Do one’s best.
Do a favour.
‘Make’, on the other hand, is used:
- To describe an activity that produces something tangible.
Make coffee.
Make breakfast.
- In standard expressions.
Make room.
Make do.
