Dear Reader,
Do you sometimes get expressions using “make” and “do” confused? Or would you like to give yourself a tune-up?
In today’s letter we are going to take a closer look at this subject. The first thing to remember is that “make” is usually about producing, creating or constructing something. The next point to remember is that “do” is usually about actions (im Sinne von “erledigen”). And finally, you don’t want to forget the different contexts (Zusammenhänge) for each verb:
Expressions with “do”
1. Use “do” for indefinite articles
(often with “something, anything, somebody, something, nothing nobody, noone” etc.):
They did something surprising.
He likes doing nothing in the evenings.
2. Use “do” for work or study:
I did my MBA in international business.
I’m not going to do anything after six o’clock tonight.
3. Use “do” with the –ing (gerunds):
We should do some more writing this afternoon.
We had to do a lot of talking before they agreed.
“Expressions with make”
1. Use “make” for creating, building or constructing something:
Let’s make an appointment for Friday morning.
Could you make another copy?
2. Use “make” with two objects:
Of course I can make you a full business offer.
I need to make some phone calls this afternoon.
In my opinion, these are enough rules for one day. Concentrating on these rules is more of a help than trying to translate the “machen” and “tun” expressions from German to English.
In our next issue, we will take a look at some useful expressions with “make”.Until then, I hope you will be making more progress in your English efforts.
Bildnachweis: patpitchaya / stock.adobe.com