Differences between the verbs “to do” and “to make”

Today we’re going to learn the main differences between the verbs to do and to make. These two verbs have similar meanings but can be complicated for English learners.

How are they used correctly? Let’s take a look!

Generally, we use the following rules:

To make

To make is used when we create, build or construct something.

Examples:

We made a small boat so we could cross the river more easily.

I spent the whole afternoon making a sculpture!

We made a path leading from the back door to the swimming pool.

To do

To do is used mainly for activities, sports, and tasks

Examples:

I do karate on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

She needs to do the washing up before she is allowed to go out.

Today I need to do all my homework so I don’t have any next week.

Phrases with “to do”

There are also many set phrases with “to do” that are very important to learn:

• To do well
  I’m so proud of you! You did so well!

• To do research
  The doctors are doing research on the origins of the disease.

• To do (someone) a favour
  Could you please do me a favour and pick me up?

• To do harm
  Smoking too much can do harm to your lungs.

• To do damage
  I banged into another car while leaving work and did some damage to my car.

• To do one’s best
  You need to do your best tomorrow. I’m counting on you.

• To do a drawing
  Sheila did a drawing of a person’s face. It’s beautiful.

Phrases with “to make”

Here are some set phrases with “to make”:

• To make a mess
  Every time you paint, you make a mess.

• To make a point
  I made a point of telling her to come home early.

• To make a decision
  You need to make a decision. What are you going to do?

• To make noise
  Please don’t make noise; this is a library.

• To make a profit
  We hope that our business will make a profit within the first year.

• To make time
  You need to make more time for studying English.

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