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.
Do an exam.
E.g. She has to do several exams at the end of the school term.
Make certain.
E.g. I think the train leaves at 10.30 but let’s make certain by checking online. I don’t want to miss it!
Make a fortune.
E.g. They made an absolute fortune when they sold their very successful company. Now they don’t need to work.
Have fun learning English!
Louise