Make Do vs Make Due
What’s the difference between them?
Make Do
Meaning:
to manage with what is available; to cope with a difficult situation using existing resources.
Examples:
1. We had to make do with what little we had.
2. She had to make do with a small budget for the project.
3. They had to make do with the supplies they had in the office.
Make Due
Meaning:
incorrect usage of 'make do.'
Examples:
no examples
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Make Do
1. Get by
2. Make the best of
3. Adapt
4. Improvise
1. Throw away
2. Splurge
3. Waste extravagantly
4. Spend lavishly
5. Dismiss extravagantly
Make Due
This word doesn't exist, so there are no synonyms for it.
This word doesn't exist, so there are no antonyms for it.
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Make Do", "Make Due".
1. Make do is used when you have to use something in a way it was not originally intended, or to work with the resources you have at your disposal.
2. Make due is not a correct phrase.
3. Mnemonic Phrase: 'Make do with what you have, but don't make due - it makes no sense.'
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
In what situations should the first word be used?
The phrase 'make do' should be used when one is trying to make use of what is available to accomplish a task. It can also be used to describe an activity or situation that is done with what is available in a limited way.
When is the appropriate context for using the second word?
The phrase 'make due' is incorrect and should be avoided in modern English.
Do the two words share the same pronunciation?
The two words are pronounced differently, with 'make do' being pronounced as 'MAK-doo' and 'make due' being pronounced as 'MAK-dew'.
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
One common mistake people make is confusing the two words, using 'make due' instead of 'make do.' Another mistake is using the wrong pronunciation when speaking. It is important to remember the correct pronunciation to ensure clarity in speaking.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. Since the store was closed, Sarah had to ________ with the ingredients she already had.
2. Without the proper tools, the mechanic decided to ________ with what was available in the workshop.
3. Sometimes in life, you dont get everything you want and you just have to ________.
4. When traveling, its essential to be flexible and be able to ________ with unexpected situations.
5. She didnt have her usual art supplies, but she decided to ________ with household items.
6. Budget travelers often ________ with cheaper accommodations and local food.
1. Make Do
Explanation: The context suggests managing with available ingredients, hence the correct phrase is make do.
2. Make Do
Explanation: The mechanic is trying to manage with whats at hand. The right phrase here is make do.
3. Make Do
Explanation: The sentence talks about managing or coping when you dont get everything you desire, making make do the correct choice.
4. Make Do
Explanation: Traveling can bring unexpected situations where you might have to manage with whats available, aligning with the definition of make do.
5. Make Do
Explanation: The artist is trying to work with whats available (household items) instead of her regular supplies, so make do fits best.
6. Make Do
Explanation: Budget travelers try to manage with cheaper options to stay within their budget, which is the essence of make do.
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List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.