Let’s be honest, sometimes English can be confusing. Sometimes when learning English it is easy to mix up words or be unsure when to use them.
I often hear German speakers who are learning English make mistakes with the words ‘make’ and ‘do’. Often (but not always) it is because the German word ‘machen’ is mistranslated.
There are many phrases and expressions that exist in English where there is no real rule to help you remember the difference between ‘make’ and ‘do’. You just have to learn them. Sorry!
Take a look at the examples below. Hopefully they will make things clearer for you.
Make amends.
E.g. I’m very sorry that what I said upset you so much. How can I make amends?
Make a journey.
E.g. Please do not make any journeys that are not absolutely essential. The snow is really deep and the weather is getting worse.
Do damage.
E.g. She was okay after the car accident but a lot of damage was done to her car.
Have fun learning English!
Louise