Word Students Confuse - make or do?

ScottsEnglish

When do we use 'make' in English and when do we use 'do'?

In many Latin languages, there is only one word used for performing actions. In English, there are two: make / made / made and do / did / done.

These two words are not used interchangeably. 'Make' is used to describe an action done with the hands, or an effort. For example, "I am going to make dinner", or "She has made progress in English this year." 

"Do" is used for repetitive actions or obligations. For example, "It is time to do the dishes", or "He has to do his homework."

Put "make" or "do" in the following sentences.

1. If you want clean clothes, you have to __________________ your laundry.

2. I am going to _______________ meatballs to go with this spaghetti.

3. She ________________ a small mistake: our house is number 111, not 110.

4. They want to ________________ a reservation for 7:00 pm tonight at the restaurant.

5. Did you _________________ anything interesting for your birthday? 

6. Relax and _______________ your best, you are prepared for the exam.

Click here for the right answers.

1. If you want clean clothes, you have to do your laundry.

2. I am going to make meatballs to go with this spaghetti.

3. She made a small mistake: our house is number 111, not 110.

4. They want to make a reservation for 7:00 pm tonight at the restaurant.

5. Did you do anything interesting for your birthday? 

6. Relax and do your best, you are prepared for the exam.