Everyday English 20-12-2025


Avoid direct translation of "doing mistake"
Use "make a mistake," not "do mistake."
Example: "I made a mistake in the test," not "I did a mistake in the test."


"Make" and "do" are delexical verbs that form fixed collocations in English, but learners often mix them up due to direct translation from their native languages. Common errors include using "do" for creation or results and "make" for tasks or actions. Fixing them requires memorizing natural pairings and practicing in context.

Key Differences

Use "do" for actions, jobs, tasks, or routines like "do homework" or "do the dishes," as it emphasizes the activity itself. Use "make" for producing or creating something, such as "make a decision" or "make dinner," focusing on the outcome.

Frequent Errors

Learners commonly say these incorrect phrases, often influenced by other languages:

  • "Do a mistake" instead of "make a mistake."
  • "Take a decision" instead of "make a decision."
  • "Do an effort" instead of "make an effort."
  • "Make homework" instead of "do homework."
  • "Do an essay" instead of "write an essay."

Correct Collocations

Category Do Examples Make Examples
Tasks do homework, do exercise, do the dishes make dinner, make a sandwich, make plans
Results do business make a mistake, make progress, make a choice

Tips to Fix

  • Memorize high-frequency pairs in full sentences, like "I make mistakes but do my best."
  • Use the rule: if producing a result, choose "make"; for performing an activity, choose "do."
  • Practice with quizzes or apps to build intuition over time.

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